Becoming Whole

You can have the best intentions, the strongest willpower, and a stack of books on sexual integrity and still feel like nothing is changing. We have seen why, over and over: most people try to heal by investing in only one lane. Real recovery from pornography, sexual addiction, betrayal trauma, and sexual wounds tends to accelerate when three essentials show up together: content, community, and counsel. Josh sits down with Aaron Tagert and Greg Ruhland to unpack what each “C” actually ...

If you’ve ever thought, “I believe the Bible, so why does God still feel far away?” this conversation is for you. We start with the uncomfortable truth that you can become incredibly skilled at the wrong thing: years of rehearsing shame, compulsive habits, and the lie that you’re unloved. Then we flip the script toward a different kind of mastery: learning to recognize your heavenly Father’s voice with clarity, confidence, and peace. James Craig sits down with Reverend Dr. John Lo to e...

Pain has a way of driving our choices, especially the choices we regret most. When unwanted sexual behaviors show up, it’s tempting to reduce everything to willpower, rules, or stronger accountability. We’ve learned that lasting sexual integrity usually requires something deeper: changing how we relate to pain, how we relate to other people, and how we relate to ourselves. Josh is joined by Greg Ruhland from our church engagement team to explore what it looks like to stop medicating discomfo...

Fantasy is a soft place to land because it demands nothing from us. Reality is harder and that’s exactly why it changes us. We sit with a blunt question that can reshape recovery: if you keep returning to porn, sexual fantasy, scrolling, or busyness, what pain or fear are you trying not to feel? When we stop fighting symptoms and start listening, escape loses some of its power. We talk about why modern life makes it easier than ever to build a “virtual reality” that feels safer than th...

A trigger can feel like proof that something is wrong with you. But we’ve learned to see it differently: emotional pain that taps an unhealed wound and yanks us out of our best thinking. When that happens, our bodies often take over with fight, flight, fawn, freeze, or a rush toward self-comfort that can slide straight into the addiction cycle. We slow all of that down and ask a better question: what if the trigger is an invitation to connection and healing? We get practical about what to do...

If you’ve ever wondered why your recovery feels slow even when you’re doing “all the right things,” this conversation names a missing piece that can change your trajectory: retreat. We talk about why getting away for a concentrated weekend is not escapism, but a powerful and practical recovery tool that helps you go deeper than weekly therapy, coaching, or group can often reach on their own. When time expands and distractions shrink, the real story under the behavior has room to surface and h...

A lot of us want joy without the valley, freedom without the tears, and healing without feeling what happened. That’s why we start with a vivid picture: your inner world as a dinner party where every emotion shows up, including the ones you’d rather avoid. When we refuse to “come downstairs,” we often reach for fast comfort and one of the most powerful shortcuts is sex. It can feel like relief, but it’s a pseudo-resurrection that never brings real repair. James Craig sits down with Kyl...

The question “Can same-sex attraction change?” is rarely just curiosity. It usually carries fear: “Will I ever be able to marry?” “Is this who I am?” “If this shows up again, does that mean God isn’t working?” Josh sits down with Kyle Bowman and Greg Ruhland from Regeneration to talk honestly about change, discipleship, and what a hopeful, grounded Christian perspective can look like when you’re tired of shame and exhausted from trying to white-knuckle your way into freedom. Kyle shares her ...

A single word can change what someone believes about themselves. “Addiction.” “Trauma.” “Struggle.” James Craig and therapist Blake Brinkman talk honestly about why certain terms can shut people down, especially when they carry cultural baggage, and how a simpler word like struggle can sometimes open the door to truth, humility, and real support. We also get specific about sexual brokenness and pornography addiction, including why compulsive porn use can function like a process addicti...

Anger can feel like the problem, but what if it’s actually the cover story? Aaron Tagert and James Craig pull on a thread that has reshaped their coaching conversations: sadness often starts in the gut, rises toward tears, and when we block it, it can convert into anxiety in the chest or burst out as anger from the mouth. That shift matters for anyone who feels stuck in frustration, shame, or emotional shutdown and can’t figure out why the smallest things set them off. We get practical and p...

Calling yourself “humble” can sound spiritual while you quietly live in self-doubt, shame, and a constant need to prove you matter. In this episode of Becoming Whole, we share part of a hard truth: insecurity and humility are not the same, and mixing them up can keep you stuck in lust and unwanted sexual behaviors even when you genuinely want freedom. We walk through the difference between love and lust, then connect it to the sexual addiction cycle: challenging life events, triggers, shame,...

Your strongest sexual desires can feel like destiny, like a permanent label that tells you who you are and what you’ll always chase. We don’t buy that. James Craig sits down with Josh Glazer to talk about a different kind of change: not behavior hacks, not sheer willpower, but the slow, hopeful formation of what we love, what we long for, and what we reach for when we’re hurting. We dig into how culture preaches “follow your heart,” and why that message often produces despair for Christians ...

A lot of people want to be compassionate and end up quietly rewriting their convictions. We start with a sharp line from Augustine that helps clear the fog: it’s one thing to be wrong about a person, but it’s another thing to call something good that God calls sin. From there, we talk honestly about the pain underneath the LGBTQ experience and sexual brokenness, and why love doesn’t avoid that pain by changing the definition of morality. Love goes into the hard places because it cares a...

Your sexual desire can feel like a verdict. When you’ve gone back to porn again, crossed boundaries again, or found yourself stuck in patterns you hate, it’s easy to believe the loudest story: this is just who I am. We push against that lie with a different question, one that exposes the strategy of shame: why would the enemy want you to believe your sexual behaviors define your identity? We stay in John 4 with Jesus and the woman at the well, not to weaponize the passage, but to hear the te...

The lie that keeps so many of us stuck isn’t “you’re too weak” it’s “you’re on your own.” When we’re isolated, we learn to manage, perform, and keep it together, while the real stuff stays hidden under shame and fear. Today, we go after that hidden layer and ask a simple, unsettling question: what’s the 3% you won’t say out loud, and what is it costing you? I’m joined by Jamie and Blake, Nashville therapists and the voices behind the Three Percent Podcast. They share how trauma, attachment w...

Sex can feel like the loudest desire in the room, but what if it’s actually a signpost pointing to something deeper? James Craig, our director of projects, shares a condensed version of a church talk that maps a Christian theology of sexuality from creation to fall to redemption, with an honest look at why so many people feel fractured inside their own wants, choices, and sense of self. If you’ve ever wondered why sex carries so much weight, or how healing can reach deeper than shame and wil...

The first command in the Bible is not a rule about what to avoid. It is a commissioning to be fruitful, to multiply, and to image God together as embodied people. That single detail reframes a lot of confusion and shame around sex, the body, and marriage, so we decided to share a portion of a church talk from James Craig, our director of projects, that takes the wide-angle view. We start with Genesis and a Christian anthropology: Imago Dei and the claim that men and women share equal dignity...

*The topic is anger, but the stories are tender, so please pause, pray, breathe, and listen as you feel ready.* Anger is often misunderstood—and often buried. But what if anger isn’t just something to control… What if it’s something to understand? In this episode, we explore how anger can function as both a signal and a driver—especially in cycles of unwanted sexual behavior. Drawing from Scripture, personal stories, and practical tools, we talk about how to: Recognize anger as mo...

Shame has a way of pushing us into the hottest part of the day, alone, doing life where no one can see us. That’s why John 4 hits so hard for anyone carrying sexual brokenness, porn use, compulsive fantasy, secret hookups, or a past that still stings. We walk through Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman and pay attention to the details that reveal His heart: He goes where others won’t go, He initiates conversation, and He starts with a humble request for a drink. We talk about isolation...

A head turn in the park. A glance across the sanctuary. For many couples healing after infidelity, pornography, or sexual addiction, those tiny moments can feel bigger than the whole week of progress. We sit down with coaches Aaron Tagert and Anne Donahue to slow the moment down and name what’s really happening: betrayal trauma in her body, shame and helplessness in him, and the split-second choice between defensiveness and connection. We talk about why “I wasn’t looking” usually backf...

Addiction and unwanted sexual behaviors often feel like a mystery: “I don’t want this, but I keep doing it.” We sit down with Chris Coursey, co-founder and president of Thrive Today, to explore a different diagnosis for overcoming sexual addiction. Addiction, a maturity gap that forms when our brains never receive key relational skills. When these skills are missing, we don’t stop needing comfort, connection, or relief. We just reach for substitutes that work fast and fade faster. We dig int...

“I watch porn because my wife won’t have sex with me” sounds like a blunt confession, but it’s usually a doorway into something much bigger: intimacy, rejection, power, trust, and what we believe sex is actually for. We sit with that statement pastorally and honestly, and we ask a hard question many couples avoid: when sex disappears in a Christian marriage, what is the wise, loving, God-honoring next step? We walk through why sex is more than a physical outlet. It’s connection, “knowing,” a...

“Are you affirming?” might be the most common question churches get about sexuality and it’s also one of the easiest traps to fall into. We want to be clear on historic Christian teaching about marriage, singleness, celibacy, and chastity, but we also want to lead with the better invitation: come follow Jesus, and let him reshape every part of your life. That shift changes the entire atmosphere, especially for people who feel like their sexual struggles make them unwelcome at church. W...

In this episode, our hosts share what they hear most from clients who love their local church yet feel stuck. Either sex is never addressed; it shows up as a quick “thou shalt not” list, or the tone implies “if you struggle, you’re bad.” We also explore the website dilemma: when clarity is loving, when vagueness backfires, and how a perceived bait-and-switch can retraumatize people who already fear rejection. If you’re a pastor, a small group leader, or a church member who wants to help, lis...

What if the way we talk about sexuality is the very thing keeping us stuck? We trace the surprising origins of “heterosexual” and “homosexual,” unpack why those categories took hold, and explore how turning desires into identity reshaped culture, conscience, and the church. We draw from Michael Hannon’s “Against Heterosexuality” and Michel Foucault’s history of sexuality to show how an invented binary promised clarity but delivered confusion, shame, and pride. We share why language isn’t neu...

What if your imagination isn’t a liability but a lifeline? We open a candid conversation about fantasy, romance, and the deep longings that quietly direct our relationships with ourselves, others, and God. Rather than treating desire like a problem to fix, we treat it like a compass—one that often points to unmet needs for being seen, soothed, safe, and secure. Join us, get curious, and take the next brave step. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a review. Also, we w...

Shame, Isolation, and Why Community Is the Opposite of Addiction Join us in today’s episode as I (James Craig) sit down with Regen coach Aaron Tagert to talk about what keeps people stuck in addictive cycles—especially around porn and unwanted sexual behaviors. Aaron shares three major drivers he’ll cover in an upcoming men’s webinar: shame, isolation, and the uncomfortable truth that there can be something about porn that part of us “likes.” We focus mainly on isolation, pulling ...

Repentance doesn’t have to sound like a finger wag. We explore a better way: turning as realignment with God’s character and kingdom. Especially for those worn out by “just stop it” advice or guilt-heavy apologies that never seem to change anything. Drawing on the idea of metanoia—the turning of the mind—we share how repentance becomes a process shaped by what we feed our attention, who we walk with, and how we pray with our bodies when desire runs hot, and feelings run cold. If repentance a...

What if the missing piece in recovery and marriage isn’t more discipline, but deeper confidence? Not swagger. Not self-worship. A grounded assurance that you’re God’s workmanship, made very good, and called to show up with your whole self for the good of others. We unpack how this kind of confidence breaks the cycle of lust and fantasy by replacing shortcuts with purpose and presence, and why it’s the difference between real love and people-pleasing. If this resonates, share it with a ...

Temptation rarely arrives out of nowhere—it rides in on pain, pressure, and old stories that never got the care they needed. In this episode, Josh checks in with coaches Aaron Tagert and James Craig to explore a kinder, braver way to face unwanted sexual behavior: trade shame for curiosity, isolation for relationship, and quick fixes for deep repair. We start by reframing triggers as signals of emotional or physical discomfort, then show why “why” is the wrong starting question. Instead, we ...

The way we talk about sex shapes what we see—and too often, we’ve learned to see in parts. Today, we take a jackhammer to the pavement of cultural scripts and rebuild a vision where sex isn’t “a thing” to get, but a way to love a whole person. We explore how lust reduces and love restores, why the body speaks of a person’s worth, and how honoring freedom, story, and dignity transforms intimacy. If you’ve felt trapped in the loop of demand, disappointment, and dull desire, this conversation o...

Secrets starve intimacy, and silence keeps marriages stuck at the surface. We pull back the curtain on what it really takes to move from hidden struggle to honest healing: starting real recovery, disclosing wisely, and building daily safety through empathy, boundaries, and rhythm. With coaches Ann Donahue, Aaron Tagert, and James Craig, we break down betrayal trauma in plain language so both partners can understand why the body panics, why the mind spins, and what actually restores a sense of...

What if telling the truth is the only way to make home feel safe again? We dive into the messy, honest reality of confession around sexual brokenness and how to navigate it when your spouse says they don’t want the details. With James hosting alongside coaches Aaron and Anne, we unpack why secrecy keeps control in place, why many betrayed spouses want truth without graphic play‑by‑play, and how to honor both integrity and nervous system safety at the same time. We walk through five essential...

What if the most important part of talking with our kids about sex isn’t a perfect script, but a different posture? We unpack why the one-and-done model backfires, how tone silently teaches more than content, and what to do when your own fear, shame, or grief flares in the moment. You’ll hear practical language for “I don’t know yet, but I’ll get back to you,” and how that single line can keep your child coming to you rather than Google. We also tackle the tricky middle ground of vulne...

What if the goal isn’t to bubble‑wrap your kids from a sexualized world, but to raise resilient, shame‑resistant disciples who know how to repair? James Craig sits down with our newest staff member and parenting resource lead, Blake Brinkman, to tackle five urgent questions parents are asking: shielding kids from porn, responding to rebellion, setting wise screen rules, navigating complexity, and leading from your own healing. Together we rethink control, anchor everything in the Incarnation,...

Ever felt like you’re living two lives—one that prays and serves, and one that hides, aches, or acts out? We go straight at that divide and ask what Advent is really saying to our bodies: the Word became flesh. If God chose skin and bone, then your body isn’t a liability to your faith—it’s the home where Christ loves, heals, and restores. If this met you, share it with a friend who needs hope, subscribe for more conversations on embodied faith, and leave a review with one takeaway you’ll try...

Start with a simple claim that changes everything: your body is not an accessory to your soul; it’s where God meets you. We explore how the incarnation—God with us in a body—reframes three charged realities shaping our lives right now: transgender ideology, AI’s growing role in sexual temptation, and a culture-wide surge of loneliness. If this conversation helps you rethink identity, desire, or connection, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and leave a review with one practice you’l...

What if the loudest name over your life isn’t the truest one? Opening with Genesis and the image of God forming humans from the dust, declaring us very good before performance, accolades, or failure ever show up. From there, we take an honest look at the voices that compete for our identity—worldly success metrics, other people’s wounds, cultural comparison, and the enemy’s oldest tactic of questioning who we are. These voices don’t just echo; they shape thought patterns, build neural pathway...

What if freedom from porn isn’t about fighting harder, but about growing deeper? We sit down with author and coach Drew Boa to reframe the struggle with clarity and compassion, exploring how porn often acts as a regulator for unprocessed emotions and unmet attachment needs. Instead of battling urges with shame, we talk about befriending the parts of us that first learned to cope this way and inviting them into real safety and connection. Ready to trade counterfeit comfort for a real connecti...

Safety isn’t a feeling you can force, and “good” isn’t a real update. We sit down with coach and Hope Redefined founder Lyschel Burkett to map out a better way for couples to reconnect after betrayal: structured, mutual check-ins that trade control for connection and shame for safety. If you’ve tried to talk and ended up in a spiral, this conversation gives you words, rails, and hope. If this episode helped, follow the show, share with a friend who needs hope, and leave a rating and review s...

What if the questions we ask about sex are too small? We take on role-play, masturbating while thinking about a spouse, and the habits modern culture treats as normal—and then we lay out a bigger, braver vision for intimacy that actually heals. We start with the allure of role-play. Playfulness and communication are good, but pretending to be someone else can fracture the connection by elevating a mask over the person you vowed to love. From there, we tackle solo sex “about” your spou...

What if the pull of porn is really a hunger for connection and joy? James Craig sits down with Dr. Marcus Warner to map a route to sexual integrity—one that trades shame and isolation for belonging, identity, healing, and maturity. We unpack the BATTLE model: build community that fosters true belonging, act like your real self as a protector, tackle roots by addressing wounds, lies, vows, and strongholds, take down the enemy by revoking permission and standing in authority, live by the Spirit...

Two hidden habits might be quietly prolonging your struggle with sexual sin—and they often masquerade as maturity. We dig into self-hatred and self-pity: why they feel justified, how they attach to faith language and real grief, and what to do instead. Rather than piling on shame or dwelling in sorrow, we unpack a path of self-compassion that keeps dignity, responsibility, and growth at the center. If you’re ready to trade contempt and pity for courage and compassion, join us. Subscribe, sha...

Culture keeps shouting two bad options for men: shrink your strength or dominate with it. We want to share something truer and more human —a third way shaped by Jesus, the one who washed feet, wept with friends, and laid down his life. This conversation explores how Christ-shaped masculinity can transform recovery from a project of behavioral control into a path of formation, where shame is faced, strength is refined, and love prevails. If you’re ready for a path that turns shame into streng...

Do your desires feel like enemies to be conquered, or could they actually be signposts pointing toward your truest fulfillment? In this conversation with Christopher West, we discuss how our hungers—even our unwanted sexual behaviors—reveal something beautiful about our design. Christopher shares his journey from the "starvation diet gospel" of his Catholic upbringing through the "fast food gospel" of cultural gratification to discovering what our souls truly crave. His insights on John Paul...

A simple sentence could transform your recovery journey: "I feel ___ about ___ because ___." In this conversation with Sue Moore of Forgiven Much Ministries, we dive deep into an advanced technique for processing emotions that can break cycles of unwanted behavior. Whether you're struggling with unwanted sexual behavior, processing betrayal trauma, or simply wanting deeper emotional awareness, this conversation offers practical tools for becoming whole. For parents and caregivers, these tech...

On this episode of the Becoming Whole Podcast, we welcome Sue Moore, the founder and CEO of Forgiving Much Ministries. Sue walks us through a basic emotions reflection exercise to help us process negative emotions and overcome unwanted sexual behaviors. Learn about her personal journey and how emotional health is crucial for dealing with betrayal, parenting challenges, and personal addictions. Discover practical steps to cultivate emotional resilience by pausing to reflect on your feelings, u...

What kind of legacy are you leaving in your home? For many men, this question cuts deep. They're physically present but emotionally absent—buried in work, numbed by addiction, or simply disconnected from their own hearts. Meanwhile, their families feel the void: wives longing for connection and children navigating life without the emotional safety they desperately need. In this powerful conversation, Aaron Tagert sits down with Joel Warneking, Executive Director of 423 Communities, who share...

Ever feel completely exhausted despite getting enough sleep? There's a reason for that—and it goes beyond physical fatigue. In this second episode on rest, we dive deep into four often-overlooked forms of restoration that are essential for wholeness and recovery. Continuing our exploration of Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith's seven types of rest, we move beyond the physical, mental, and emotional to discover spiritual, social, sensory, and creative rest. Each offers a unique pathway to restoration t...

What if the missing piece in your recovery journey isn't more discipline or accountability, but specific kinds of rest you've been overlooking? Dr. Sondra Dalton-Smith's concept of "sacred rest" offers a framework for understanding why many of us remain stuck in cycles of unwanted sexual behavior despite our best efforts. Kyle Bowman and I explore how three distinct types of rest—physical, mental, and emotional—directly impact our ability to heal from sexual brokenness. This conversat...

Recovery fatigue is a rarely discussed but a common experience for men trying to rebuild after betrayal. What happens when all the meetings, check-ins, and recovery work start to feel overwhelming or—worse yet—like they're not making a difference? Dan Drake, a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified sex addiction therapist with over 20 years of experience, joins us to unpack this challenging reality. He shares insights on how recovery motivation makes all the difference: "If I'm...

Caught between exploding and imploding? You're not alone. This episode uncovers the hidden connection between acting out (through behaviors like porn, alcohol, or overworking) and acting in (through withdrawal, passive-aggression, and emotional shutdown). What looks like self-control on the surface might actually be self-contempt in disguise. Ready for transformation? Join us for the men's Awaken retreat (October 3-5) or the women's Sacred by Design retreat (November 7-8). Space is limited, ...

What if your recovery from unwanted sexual behaviors could be strengthened by simple physical practices you've overlooked? In this episode, we dive into often-forgotten physical disciplines that transform spiritual recovery. From breathing techniques that calm the nervous system during moments of temptation to the profound impact of proper hydration on decision-making, we explore how our bodies are designed to function optimally through specific practices. Whether you're just beginning your ...

Have you ever considered that your body might be your greatest ally—not your enemy—in recovery from unwanted sexual behaviors? Many of us approach healing as primarily spiritual or psychological, overlooking the role our physical existence plays in transformation. Your body isn't just a vessel carrying your spirit through life; it's an integrated part of who God designed you to be. From the very beginning, Genesis shows humanity as formed from dust and brought to life by divine breath—we are...

What if the solution to overcoming pornography addiction isn't found in behavior modification but in healing your heart? In this episode, Sathiya Sam shares how addressing the root causes of unwanted sexual behavior leads to genuine freedom that behavior-focused approaches simply can't deliver. Sathiya, the architect behind Deep Clean—a program that has helped thousands of men overcome pornography addiction—reveals his personal 15-year battle with porn that began at age 11. His journey from ...

The world has a plan for your formation—are you consciously designing your counter-strategy? In this episode, we continue our conversation about developing a "rule of life" that helps us resist the powerful current of cultural formation pulling us away from Christ-likeness. We tackle one of the most common obstacles to spiritual disciplines—the subtle belief that these practices earn God's favor rather than create space for relationship. When morning prayer becomes an obligation rather than ...

Freedom doesn't happen by accident. Whether we realize it or not, our daily routines, habits, and patterns are shaping who we're becoming—either drawing us deeper into wholeness or reinforcing cycles of brokenness. The practice of a "rule of life" offers hope and structure for those struggling with unwanted sexual behaviors. From scripture reading and prayer to solitude, fasting, and physical exercise, we discuss practical disciplines that support recovery from sexual struggles. Rathe...

What happens when a seminary-educated lesbian pastor encounters the Holy Spirit in an unexpected way? Elizabeth Woning never planned to question her gay identity or theology. As a gay-affirming Presbyterian minister, she believed the church needed to change, not her sexuality. Then came the moment that shattered everything. During an awkward visit to a Pentecostal youth service, a teenage boy approached her with a prophetic word that answered a private prayer she'd never shared. "Does ...

What if your sexual struggles aren't merely obstacles to overcome but doorways to deeper healing? In this episode we welcome our guest Marco Casanova as he shares his story and journey of wholeness. As Associate Director of Desert Stream Ministries and coordinator of their Living Waters program, Marco brings a fresh perspective to one of our culture's most polarizing topics. Having left the Catholic seminary after eight years when he realized his same-sex attraction made him uncertain ...

What does it mean to be truly yourself while following Jesus? Kyle Bowman's transformative journey from embracing a same-sex lifestyle for eleven years to discovering her authentic identity in Christ challenges our assumptions about sexuality, spirituality, and personal transformation. Kyle's story begins with a seemingly typical childhood where performance became her pathway to connection. As she discovered her attraction to women, she fully embraced that identity until emotional turmoil an...

What if the very storms you're desperately trying to outrun are actually the pathway to your healing? Sexual brokenness, unwanted desires, betrayal, and shame can feel like overwhelming tempests in our lives. Many of us respond by running—numbing out through pornography, hiding in isolation, staying in denial, or blaming others. In today's podcast, we look at the unique actions of buffalo. Unlike cows that flee from storms (only to spend more time in them), buffalo turn and charge dir...

What has your body been trying to tell you all along? In this profound conclusion to our three-part series, we explore how our physical bodies, specifically as male and female—communicate God's most essential nature: love that gives itself away. Diving into Genesis, we see human beings as image-bearers of God. The first attribute mentioned about humans in scripture is that they are "male and female," suggesting our gendered bodies communicate something vital about our Creator. We examine how...

What if the way Jesus saw people wasn't exceptional, but exemplary? What if His vision—His ability to perceive beyond surface appearances—is actually how we're designed to see? This episode continues in the importance to see people as whole human beings rather than objects for pleasure or obstacles to happiness. Josh opens with a powerful story about a seemingly "grumpy" waitress whose true circumstances completely transformed how he perceived her. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus consis...

Have you ever wondered if freedom from sexual struggles is actually possible? This episode challenges the common belief that lust is simply "a lifelong battle" that Christians must endure. Starting with the question—what happens when we forget what we truly are?—hosts Josh and James explore how our understanding of human sexuality has been distorted by both culture and limited gospel perspectives. They compare how differently we approach other struggles like anger or theft, where we expect r...

The digital world has transformed parenting in profound ways, creating unprecedented challenges for families navigating sexuality and technology. In this eye-opening conversation, Jacob Volk, Co-Executive Director of Into the Light Ministries, brings clarity and hope to parents feeling overwhelmed by these complex issues. "The average child is exposed to explicit content at age eight," Volk reveals, underscoring why conversations about sexuality can't wait. But rather than approaching this r...

In this episode of Becoming Whole, we sit down with Matthew and Joanna RaabSmith to discuss their personal journey of recovering from marital betrayal and the work they do with other couples to rebuild intimacy. They share their unique story of whirlwind romance, struggles with sexual addiction, and the steps they took towards healing and recovery. The conversation delves into their development of the 'intimacy pyramid,' a framework to guide couples through honesty, safety, trust, vulnerabili...

Imagine driving past a house that looks a bit off, maybe the porch is sagging, or the house seems to lean. That’s what happens when a foundation is compromised, and you know, relationships can face the same troubles, especially after betrayal. Today's podcast talks about how full therapeutic disclosure can be a game-changer for couples dealing with betrayal. It’s like laying down a solid truth foundation. It’s not just about spilling the beans; it’s about sharing everything in a safe, guided ...

Singleness often exists in the shadows of our cultural conversation, especially in faith communities where marriage is frequently celebrated as the ultimate destination. But what if your life's unexpected path includes long-term singleness? How do you navigate sexuality, loneliness, and purpose when the "happily ever after" narrative hasn't materialized as planned? Connally Gillum, author of "Revelations of a Single Woman: Loving the Life I Didn't Expect," brings refreshing honesty to this c...

In this episode, Josh and Kyle Bowman, the Director of Coaches at Regen, dive deep into the experiences and challenges faced by singles, especially within the Christian community. They discuss the unique loneliness singles may feel, particularly in church settings, and emphasize that singleness should not be seen as merely a transitional phase. Kyle shares invaluable insights from her personal journey as a mature single woman, highlighting the importance of community, self-acceptance, a...

The episode dives into the necessity of community in personal growth and healing. We discuss how God created us for relationships and the importance of the church in supporting individual journeys. • Understanding the connection between personal faith and community • The role of the church in personal struggles • Addressing isolation in spiritual growth • The importance of honesty and vulnerability in faith communities • Real stories of triumphs and struggles within c...

Restoring the Heart, Mind, Body, and Soul Join James, director of projects and spiritual coach at Regeneration, in this episode of the Remember series. We discuss how Jesus knows and remembers who we were created to be and explore the transformation of our hearts, minds, bodies, and souls. As we reflect on Dallas Willard's insights from Renovation of the Heart, we discuss actionable steps to heal from sexual struggles, betrayal, and more. This episode offers hope, healing, and a renewed unde...

Healing by Remembering: Overcoming Trauma and Sin Join us today as we explore the importance of remembering our personal pain and triumphs, focusing on how past trauma and unwanted behaviors are connected. We will look at the Israelites and Peter to explore how God helps us remember and heal. A few key points for this episode include practical steps on dealing with trauma, the significance of community, and finding hope through suffering. Tune in for a journey toward deeper healing and under...

In this episode, James, a spiritual coach, and Kyle Bowman, Director of Ministry discuss the profound impact of remembering God on growing in sexual integrity. They explore the importance of remembering one's origins, the transformational power of recalling God's presence and love, and how integrating these memories can realign our heart postures. They also delve into the significance of marking milestones, using tangible icons, and scripture to anchor our faith, and share personal anecdotes ...

Join us as we dive into a conversation about the power of remembering in faith and recovery. In this episode, James Craig and Josh Glaser introduce the story of Alan Menninger, the founder of Regeneration Ministries. Alan's journey from sexual brokenness to miraculous transformation showcases the power of God’s intervention. We'll explore how remembering God's miracles in our own lives is vital to our recovery journeys and faith walks. Hear about the unexpected ways God moves, the importance ...

Welcome to another episode of Becoming Whole. Today our host Josh Glaser opens up the issue of idolatry, which many of us mistakenly believe to be a relic of the past or a concern only in other cultures. But idolatry is alive and rampant in our modern world, communities, and even in our churches. Tune in for an honest discussion on how turning to God can lead us to true freedom and fulfillment. Talk To US Free Resources to help you on your journey to Becoming Whole: 👉Men's Overcoming Lust &a...

In this episode Josh explores the tension between living in a distracted world and maintaining a close relationship with God. We discuss how our engagement with worldly systems affects our struggles with sin, particularly unwanted sexual behaviors, and explore spiritual disciplines that can guide us back to a life of thriving in faith. • Exploring the dual meanings of 'world' in scripture • Understanding friendship with the world as spiritual conflict • The impact of worldly...

Welcome to the final week of the Pursuing Goodness mini-series on the Becoming Whole podcast! This episode we talk about how godly self care is essential for anyone seeking healing and wholeness from sexual and relational brokenness. Join Aaron Tagert and Kyle Bowman as they explore why many struggle with self-care, how shame and deprivation play a role, and practical ways to implement self-care in physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. Resources discussed in this episode “Lear...

Welcome back to the Becoming Whole podcast! Join Aaron Tagert, men's spiritual coach, and Andrea Smithberger, host of the Sacred by Design podcast, as they dive into week two of our 'Pursuing Goodness' mini-series. In this episode, we explore the idea of 'Reclaiming Our Senses' and how the enemy attempts to steal, kill, and destroy the goodness in our lives. Tune in for an enriching conversation that encourages you to slow down and embrace the inherent goodness God has placed within you...

Welcome back to part two of our four-part series on "Pursuing Goodness" in 2025! In today's episode, hosts Aaron Tagert and James Craig dive further into the topics of grief and lament. Contrary to popular belief, these emotions can be a catalysts for healing and growth. Aaron and James discuss personal experiences, the importance of acknowledging sorrow, and share insights on how grieving well can lead to genuine comfort and maturity. Join us as we explore how to embrace these challenging em...

Welcome to the first part of our four-part series on pursuing goodness in 2025! In today's episode, hosts Aaron Tagert and James Craig dive deep into the often-overlooked topics of grief and lament. Contrary to popular belief, these emotions can be a catalysts for healing and growth. Aaron and James discuss personal experiences, the importance of acknowledging sorrow, and share insights on how grieving well can lead to genuine comfort and maturity. Join us as we explore how to embrace these c...

In this final chapter to our Advent mini-series we discuss the connection between spirituality and sexuality through the lens of the incarnation, emphasizing how Jesus' physical embodiment relates to our lives and struggles with sexual integrity. As we dive into some theology and apply some practical spiritual disciplines, listeners can begin to reconcile their sexual lives with their spiritual journeys, aiming towards wholeness and redemption in Christ. • Discussion on the importance of Adv...

What if the essence of companionship and faith holds the key to overcoming life's most daunting challenges? This episode is an invitation through the Advent season, where we draw parallels between the biblical bond of Mary and Elizabeth and our personal battles with unwanted sexual behavior or betrayal trauma. Joined by Kyle (spiritual coach), we unravel how these stories illuminate our struggles, urging us to embrace community support and faith as vital lifelines during times of uncertainty....

What if the Christmas story could speak directly to your most personal struggles? Join Josh and Andrea (host of Sacred by Design Podcast) as we explore Advent through the lens of Mary's journey in the Gospel of Luke. We unpack Mary's encounter with the angel Gabriel, offering a fresh perspective on how her story can resonate with our own challenges, from unwanted sexual attractions to healing past wounds. Discover how Mary's "yes" to God can inspire us in our journey of surrender, inviting us...

In this episode of 'Becoming Whole, with special guest Aaron Tagert we delve into part three in our mini-series on anger. We highlight the importance of emotional awareness and maturity in recovery, drawing from the works of Brene Brown and Dr. Jim Wilder. Additionally, we discuss practical methods for inner healing through story work, inner healing prayer, and strategies like the 'porch' metaphor. This episode emphasizes the importance of engaging past wounds with curiosity and kindnes...

Join James Craig co-host and guest Rebecca Baker as they dive into the psychology of anger and its impact on unwanted sexual behavior. Rebecca, a licensed clinical social worker, shares her expertise on different therapy approaches, naming emotions, and practical tips for managing and understanding anger. They explore how emotional awareness and maturity are crucial to personal healing and how faith is a powerful tool in this journey. Whether it's in therapy or spiritual coaching, this episod...

Join Josh Glaser, executive director, and James Craig, spiritual coach, as they dive into a mini-series on anger and its link to unwanted sexual behavior. This episode explores how unprocessed anger can drive sexual sin and how recognizing and addressing it can bring about healing. With the holidays approaching and family gatherings on the horizon, understanding and managing anger becomes even more crucial. Our hope is that this series serves as a guide for anyone navigating the turbule...

Feeling overwhelmed by shame and the burden of thinking you're uniquely flawed? You're not alone, and there's hope for healing and connection. Join me as I share my journey through the isolating grip of sexual sin and temptations, and how these struggles made me feel like an outcast. With a fresh perspective, we explore the parallels between our experiences and the story of Adam and Eve, revealing how shame can drive us into secrecy and solitude. Let's address the misconception that you're th...

Pornography is a silent struggle for many within church congregations, yet it's often shrouded in secrecy and shame. What if addressing it head-on could transform not only individual lives but entire communities? In our latest episode, we explore the findings of Barna's eye-opening study in collaboration with Pure Desire Ministries, revealing that over half of practicing Christians have viewed pornography, and a staggering number find themselves without support. Join us as we discuss h...

Can you imagine a life where the constant struggle with unwanted sexual behaviors is met with the comfort of God's presence? We all carry a deep human longing to be seen, known, and loved, but sometimes these desires manifest in harmful ways. While our needs can be loud and demanding, God's presence offers a subtler yet far more profound fulfillment. We also tackle the challenge of sustaining spiritual practices like prayer and journaling in a world filled with anxiety and intrusive th...

What if the real issue with pornography isn't that it shows too much, but that it reveals too little? Through the lens of Jesus' transformative encounters with Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman, we'll uncover how He calls us to step out of darkness and into the light, teaching us to see others with the same love and compassion He exemplifies. As we wrap up our summer season (2-week break), we invite you to slow down and seek the perspective of Christ in your daily life. We can nurture genuin...

In a replay of a popular episode, Josh and James addresses a listener's question about fantasizing about one's spouse during masturbation. While scripture does not provide a clear directive on masturbation, it suggests that acts disconnected from the procreative and unitive purposes of sex does not align with God's design. From a practical standpoint, he acknowledges that fantasizing about one's spouse is a step towards sexual integrity but doesn't fully capture the essence of marital intimac...

What if sexual integrity wasn't an impossible goal but an ongoing journey of alignment with God's will? Join us as Josh Glaser, executive director at Regeneration, guides us through the transformative power of surrender in the face of temptation. Inspired by Mary's response to the angel in Luke 1:38, Josh introduces a compelling prayer exercise that emphasizes dedicating our bodies and desires to God. Together, we draw a connection between Mary's act of giving her body to the Lord and t...

Have you ever wondered how to balance effort and grace in your spiritual recovery journey? In this episode, James Craig and Kyle Bowman unpack the concept of "doing versus receiving" as they dive into the heart of spiritual healing from unwanted sexual behavior. Kyle emphasizes the importance of divine guidance over self-driven efforts, and together, they highlight that real transformation often starts by addressing deep emotional issues rather than just managing surface behaviors. Get ready ...

Healing from shame and trauma begins with being seen and known in a safe environment. We discuss the courage it takes to share our wounds, even when it feels uncomfortable and fearful. By drawing parallels to the Japanese art of Kintsugi, we highlight the inherent beauty in our scars and the transformative power of re-narrating our painful experiences with compassion. Discover how Jesus’ gentle, patient presence can help reframe our narratives, combat self-contempt, and bring about inner heal...

Could it be that the path to true healing lies not in struggle but in embracing beauty and rest? Join us as we challenge the conventional wisdom of hard work in the healing process with our special guest, Andrea Smithberger. Andrea takes us through the transformative journey of the Sacred By Design retreat at REGEN, a sanctuary designed specifically for women. We uncover how engaging with beauty can serve as a powerful form of healing, helping to overcome shame and brokenness. Drawing inspira...

In this episode, James Craig, Spiritual Coach at REGEN, welcomes Aaron Tagert, Spiritual Coach and leader of the upcoming Awaken retreat, to discuss overcoming unwanted sexual behavior. They delve into the importance of facing deep-rooted traumas rather than seeking quick fixes. Through examples and insights, they explore repentance and how men often resist revisiting their painful pasts. The discussion emphasizes cultivating curiosity, labeling sexual fantasies as messengers, and inviting Je...

Can God's love and holiness coexist harmoniously? Join us as we dispel the myth of a dichotomous "God of the Old Testament" versus "God of the New Testament," emphasizing the unified and consistent nature of God throughout the Bible. We break down how God's attributes—love, holiness, mercy, and judgment—are not only compatible but are perfectly integrated within Him. By understanding this holistic view of God's character, we gain critical insights into sexual morality and how this understandi...

What if your imagination could be the key to a deeper spiritual connection with God? This week, we explore how imagination can shape our faith, starting with the biblical story of Eve's temptation in Genesis 3. We dissect how deceptive imaginations can lead us astray, much like Eve's encounter with the forbidden fruit, and draw parallels to modern-day temptations such as sexual fantasies. You'll discover how recognizing these false imaginations is the first step in combating them and nurturin...

Curious about what really drives unwanted sexual behaviors? Join us as we uncover the deeper motivations behind these actions with insights from Josh Glaser. By exploring symbolic archetypes and understanding how these reflect God's attributes, we shed light on the "why" behind the behaviors, not just the "what." James Craig shares his personal journey from intern to coach at Regeneration, emphasizing the transformative power of our podcast in listeners' lives. We delve into the emotional wo...