Sex Addiction, Pornography, and Sexual Purity -- C

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Episode-135-Beyond-Pornography_-Why-Behavior-Change-Isn_t-Enough.mp3 In this episode, Chris examines Dallas Willard’s powerful VIM framework (Vision, Intention, Means) and why many men remain stuck in pornography despite strong accountability and safeguards. Drawing on Willard’s teaching on spiritual formation, Chris explores why lasting freedom requires deeper transformation—not just behavior management. Chris then plugs this into his Transformational Recovery Matrix to show you how to see true life change. Key Topics: Why pornography is a formation issue The VIM model explained Where most recovery efforts break down The difference between suppression and transformation Practical steps toward deeper freedom Primary Source: Dallas Willard, Beyond Pornography: Spiritual Formation Studied in a Particular Case (University of Southern California) Link to the original Dallas Willard Teaching: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4vUdAVjyMOdIKGpbTvJG0F?si=WSZKx46bSViE1JqFYFltEw The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 135 – Beyond Pornography: Why Behavior Change Isn’t Enough appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Episode-134-Interview-with-Dana-Hargus.mp3 Today on the Purity Podcast, Chris interviews Dana Hargus, licensed professional counselor and founder of Restore of Ada, about the deep connection between trauma, nervous-system dysregulation, sexual addiction, and betrayal trauma. This episode explores: Why insight, willpower, and accountability alone often fail in sexual addiction recovery How porn and compulsive sexual behaviors function as nervous-system regulation tools The role of trauma and attachment wounds in relapse cycles What betrayed partners experience in their bodies—not just their emotions Why safety must be restored before intimacy or reconciliation is possible How biofeedback and whole-person healing can create lasting transformation Learn more about Dana’s work: Restore of Ada – https://restoreofada.com This conversation is essential listening for addicts, spouses, and leaders who want recovery that goes deeper than behavior modification. The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 134: Interview with Dana Hargus appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Episode-133-CVE-How-to-Sit-With-Your-Wife_s-Pain.mp3 What does The Hunt for Red October have in common with helping your wife through her pain?  In this episode, we explore what it actually means to sit with your wife’s pain after betrayal, and why most men struggle to do it well. Using the framework of CVE: Compassion, Validation, and Empathy, we look at why pain isn’t a problem to solve, but a reality to enter. You’ll hear why explaining, defending, or minimizing often makes things worse, and how true empathy requires proximity, not emotional distance. We also draw an unexpected parallel between cybersecurity incident response and marriage recovery, unpacking why ignored vulnerabilities create more damage over time—and how moving toward pain can neutralize its destructive power. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why compassion begins with seeing, not fixing How validation acknowledges reality without surrendering truth Why empathy is proximity, not detachment How distancing yourself from pain allows it to grow more destructive What Scripture teaches about presence, listening, and emotional safety How to repair when you get CVE wrong (because you will) The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 133 – How to Sit With Your Wife’s Pain  appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Episode-132-Interview-With-Rick-Reynolds.mp3 Today on the Purity Podcast, Chris is interviewing Rick Reynolds, LCSW, founder and president of AffairRecovery.com. Rick brings more than three decades of clinical experience helping individuals and couples heal from the devastation of infidelity, along with the weight and credibility of his own story of betrayal and restoration that began in 1984. As the pioneer behind the first anonymous, online group recovery programs for affair recovery, Rick has counseled thousands of couples and guided many more through structured, hope-filled pathways toward healing. His work is marked not by shame or blame, but by honesty, accountability, vulnerability, and a deep belief that real transformation is possible even after profound relational trauma. Key Resources: Affair Recovery Analyzer – free assessment to start recovery. (Affair Recovery) First Step Bootcamp – 7-day introductory healing pathway. (Amazon Web Services, Inc.) Recovery Library – extensive articles, videos, Q&A with Rick. (Affair Recovery) Harboring Hope – 13-week course for betrayed partners. (Affair Recovery) Hope for Healing – 17-week course for unfaithful spouses. (Affair Recovery) EMS Online – 13-week couples healing course. (Affair Recovery) The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 132: Interview with Rick Reynolds appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Episode-131-Taylor-Chambers-from-The-Good-and-the-Free.mp3 In this episode, we sit down with therapist, coach, and author Taylor Chambers — founder of The Good and the Free. Taylor opens up about his own journey through religious upbringing, porn addiction, relapse, and the long — and still ongoing — process of rebuilding his life. He shares why traditional addiction-recovery rhetoric fell short for him and many clients, and how he reinvented a path rooted in sexual health, mindfulness, deep intimacy, and self-leadership. We dive deep into topics like: The emotional and spiritual impact of pornography and shame on men’s lives Why willpower and “white-knuckling it” often fail — and what works instead What sexual wholeness, relational integrity and healthy intimacy truly look like How to rebuild trust, connection, and emotional honesty in relationships after addiction Practical steps for recovery that don’t just remove porn — but redefine sexuality, identity, and purpose How to raise children and care for future generations in a porn-saturated world Whether you’re struggling yourself or supporting someone you love, this conversation offers a refreshing, compassionate, hope-filled framework for healing and growth. Resources Mentioned: The Good and the Free (website & community) (wearethegoodandthefree.com) Upcoming/ongoing events or programs (e.g. the “Porn-Resilient” summit or masterclasses) for listeners interested in learning more. (wearethegoodandthefree.com) The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 131 – Taylor Chambers Interview appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Episode-130.mp3 In this powerful conversation, Chris sits down with Joe Madison, founder of Demand Disruption, an organization dedicated to ending human trafficking by addressing the demand side—the buyers. Joe exposes some of the hardest truths about exploitation, pornography, and the cultural attitudes that fuel the trafficking market. This episode is a wake-up call for men pursuing purity, integrity, and Christ-centered recovery. Joe explains why fighting demand is essential, how pornography shapes buyer behavior, and what real change looks like inside our churches, communities, and personal lives. If you’ve ever wondered how your pursuit of purity connects to the fight against human trafficking, this episode will connect the dots in ways you’ve likely never heard before. Demand Disruption – Learn more about Joe’s work: www.demanddisruption.org Disruption University – Training and education programs: disruptionu.demanddisruption.org The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 130: Disrupting Demand: The Hidden Link Between Porn and Trafficking appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Episode-129_-The-First-90-Days_-Building-Your-Foundation-for-Freedom.mp3 The first 90 days of recovery can feel overwhelming, disorienting, and emotionally exhausting — but they’re also the most transformational part of the journey. In this episode, Chris walks through what makes the early stages of recovery so challenging and what actually works to build a strong foundation for sexual purity. Through teaching, Scripture, and the real story of a man named “Michael,” you’ll learn why the first 90 days matter, why they’re spiritually strategic, and how to navigate them with honesty, community, structure, and surrender. Recovery doesn’t begin with strength — it begins with brokenness.  And that’s exactly where God begins to rebuild. “The first 90 days aren’t about perfection — they’re about direction.” Recovery Plan can be found by clicking here: Recovery Plan To learn more about Castimonia, find a meeting, or give feedback on future episodes, email us at puritypodcast@castimonia.org The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 129: The First 90 Days: Building Your Foundation for Freedom appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Episode-128_-Brian-Shillingburg-Interview.mp3 Join Chris today as he interviews Brian Shillingburg. Brian is the founder of 9th Inning Project, where he walks with men out of pornography and sexual compulsivity through honest conversation, courageous accountability, and the transforming power of Jesus Christ. A certified Sexual Addiction Recovery Coach (SARC) with a master’s in education, Brian has spent his 25-year career developing people, building teams, and mentoring men through life’s most defining challenges—drawing deeply from his own journey through addiction and redemption. He coaches men 1:1 and in small groups and equips churches and leaders with practical pathways toward reconciliation and lasting freedom. Learn more: 9thInningProject.com | brian@9thinningproject.com The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 128 – Brian Shillingburg Interview appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Episode-127_-Dan-Johnson-Interview.mp3 Today, Chris is interviewing Dan Johnson. Dan was on Episode 106 where he introduced his P.A.T.H. Plan. Today, he unpacks more of his strategy for recovery by telling us about a concept he calls the Frontline Framework.  In order to have a solid recovery, you first have to have a solid plan. The Frontline Framework challenges you to have a predetermined plan, awareness of the moment, and reasons to implement the plan. To learn more about Dan and the Groups he offers go to NewPaths.me. The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 127: Dan Johnson Interview appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Episode-126_-Jake-Kastleman-Interview.mp3 Many of us men don’t understand how to relate to our addiction with compassion. We get sober by suppressing the “addict parts” of our mind, without realizing the roots of our behaviors and what those parts were trying to do for us. We sit on top of them, try to control ourselves, and force our way through recovery. There is a better way. It is rooted in Christ. I teach my clients a systematic approach to utilize emotional mindfulness, parts work, embodiment, and self-compassion to use painful emotions like addiction cravings to deepen self-understanding and self-love, so they can lose their need for addiction over time. Today Chris interviews Jake Kastleman. Jake is the founder of NoMoreDesire.com, a Christ-centered platform dedicated to helping men break free from unwanted sexual behavior and live whole, healed, and holy lives. What sets Jake apart is his deep commitment to inner transformation, not just outward sobriety. Through his writing, coaching, and online resources, Jake challenges men to do more than stop sinning—he invites them to start healing. The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 126 – Jake Kastleman Interview appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Episode-125_-Building-a-Transformation-Playbook.mp3 In this episode, Chris wraps up the series on the Transformational Recovery Matrix (TRM) by equipping men with a practical Transformation Playbook. After exploring the four quadrants—Trivial, Trapped, Transactional, and Transformational—we now land on the heart of the journey: becoming the man God has called you to be. This conversation isn’t about trying harder or managing your image—it’s about surrender, integrity, and living for Christ as your foundation. Whether you’re single, married, or divorced, God’s invitation remains the same: step into wholeness and freedom in Him. Chris walks through: The Heart of Transformation — why change must move from behavior management to heart surrender. Eight Transformation Commitments — radical ownership, pursuing God first, daily surrender, choosing truth, welcoming accountability, humble repentance, building a new legacy, and living for an audience of One. A Daily Transformational Rhythm — simple morning and evening practices to anchor your day in Christ. Early Warning Signs of Drift — subtle ways men slip back into old patterns and how to course-correct before a crash. Resources & Next Steps Learn more about Castimonia meetings (in-person, Zoom, and phone): castimonia.org Subscribe to the podcast for weekly hope and encouragement. Share this episode with a brother who needs to hear it. Evening Reflection Journal, by Lisa Archinal The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 125: Building a Transformation Playbook appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Episode-124_-Transformational_-Living-in-Integrity.mp3 In this episode, Chris unpacks the Transformational Recovery Matrix—a simple but powerful way to see where you are in your recovery journey. The four quadrants—Trivial, Trapped, Transactional, and Transformational—show the difference between just managing sin and truly living free. Chris shares his own turning point, when recovery stopped being a fight to “just stop sinning” and became a pursuit of wholeness. He explains the five core traits of transformational living—Integrity, Honesty & Transparency, Intimacy with Christ, Living with Purpose, and Gospel Dependence—along with real-life examples and practical steps any man can start today. If you’ve ever felt stuck in shame, tired of white-knuckling your way through temptation, or wondered why sobriety still feels empty, this episode will help you shift from behavior management to heart transformation. Key Scriptures: Proverbs 10:9, 1 John 1:7, John 15:5, Ephesians 2:10, 2 Corinthians 12:9 The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 124: Transformational: Living in Integrity appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Episode-123_-Transactional_-Living-in-Compliance.mp3  In this episode, we explore the Transactional Quadrant—where recovery becomes more about checking boxes than changing hearts. You may be sober, but are you truly free? We discuss the difference between compliance and transformation, the trap of religious performance, and how to let your tools (filters, check-ins, groups) lead to real intimacy with Jesus. Reflection Questions: Is my recovery about avoiding consequences—or becoming more like Christ? Am I driven by fear… or drawn by grace? Quote: “The real blessing is not the sobriety we seek, but the journey we walk.” – Mark Denison Next Episode: Transformational: Where Freedom Gets Real The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 123: Transactional: Living in Compliance appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Episode-122_-Trapped_-Living-in-Captivity.mp3 Welcome back to The Purity Podcast, sponsored by Castimonia, a Christ-centered 12-step recovery program for men battling sexual addiction. In today’s episode, we dive into the Trapped Quadrant of the Transformational Recovery Matrix—the place where denial stops working but true change still feels impossible. We’ll break it down in three parts: The Wall — When your old excuses collapse under the weight of reality. The Shame Spiral — Bouncing between guilt and secret promises that never last. From Trying Harder to Trusting Deeper — Why real freedom isn’t about willpower, but surrender. If you feel stuck, ashamed, or exhausted from trying harder—this episode is for you. Because freedom doesn’t start with perfection. It starts with pursuit. The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 122: Trapped: Living in Captivity appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Episode-121_-Trivial-–-Living-in-Denial.mp3 In this powerful episode, Chris continues the series on the Transformational Recovery Matrix (TRM) by diving deep into the Trivial Quadrant—where most men begin their journey into recovery. Marked by low awareness and low action, the Trivial Quadrant is where denial thrives. It’s the place of rationalizations, secrets, and shallow commitment. Chris shares personal experiences, insights from the TRM, and hard-hitting truths about how living in denial stunts real healing. If you’ve ever thought, “It’s not that bad,” or found yourself hiding behind religious routines while avoiding real surrender, this episode is your wake-up call. Resources Mentioned: Castimonia 12-Step Groups Drew Boa’s Recovery Groups There’s Still Hope – Mark Denison The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 121: Trivial – Living in Denial appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Episode-120_-The-Transformational-Recovery-Matrix.mp3 In this episode of The Purity Podcast, Chris introduces the Transformational Recovery Matrix. Chris created this powerful tool to help men identify where they are in their recovery journey and how to move toward true, Christ-centered transformation. Whether you’re feeling stuck, just going through the motions, or longing for deeper freedom, this episode will give you clarity, hope, and practical next steps. Learn the difference between surface-level sobriety and real heart change. Discover which quadrant you’re in—and how to grow from there. Be reminded: you are not alone on this journey. If you have questions or want to reach out, please email us at puritypodcast@castimonia.org, and remember that on this path of recovery, you are not walking alone. The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 120: The Transformational Recovery Matrix appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Episode-119_-Relentless-Pursuit_-What-Could-Stop-You.mp3 What could stop you from becoming the man God has called you to be? In this personal episode, Chris explores the potential obstacles on the path to purity and integrity, driven by his commitment to recovery from past unfaithfulness and sexual addiction and his relentless pursuit of God, his wife, and his kids. We’ll examine the internal battles, external challenges, and even well-intentioned actions that could derail this crucial journey. Key Discussion Points: The Driving Force: Understanding the personal motivation behind relentless pursuit in the context of recovery. Internal Obstacles: Exploring key internal challenges like complacency, resentment, lack of self-compassion, and unrealistic expectations. External Obstacles: Examining how your wife’s healing, trust with your children, negative influences, and life stressors can impact your pursuit. Seemingly Good Things, Potential Pitfalls: Recognizing how overcompensating or misplacing focus can be detrimental. Staying on Track: Emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, consistent effort, and reliance on God in navigating these obstacles. Actionable Takeaways: Reflect on potential obstacles in your own journey towards purity. Identify one key internal or external challenge you are currently facing. Commit to one small, intentional action this week to overcome that challenge. Connect with The Purity Podcast at puritypodcast@castimonia.org The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 119: Relentless Pursuit: What Could Stop You? appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Episode-118_-Robert-Switala-Interview.mp3 Today on Episode 18, Chris has the privilege of interviewing Robert Switala. Robert is an engineer by trade turned Licensed Mental Health Counselor. He is the owner of Mindview Mental Health Counseling. Chris invited Robert to join the podcast today when he introduced me to his Vowel Principle. He’s gonna talk us through the importance of how AEIOU and ALWAYS Y impact our Recovery. Awe below for a head start on what the letters stand for, and hang on til the end for the best summer Olympics story you’ve ever heard! To learn more about Robert or get in touch with him for a telehealth call, please go to mindviewmentalhealthcounseling.com. If you have questions or want to reach out, please email us at puritypodcast@castimonia.org, and remember that on this path of recovery, you are not walking alone. The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Episode 118: Robert Switala Interview appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Season-8-Episode-17_-Purity-Podcast-Holiday-Edition.mp3 The holidays can bring joy and celebration, but they can also amplify struggles—whether it’s stress, loneliness, or old habits trying to creep back in. But here’s the good news: Christmas isn’t about surviving; it’s about thriving through the renewal, strength, and freedom Christ offers us. In this episode, we’ll explore practical, Christ-centered steps to guard your heart, focus your mind, and lean on the One who came to set us free. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s journey together toward thriving in purity and purpose this Christmas season.” Here are the 5 ideas Chris mentioned to help reframe the season with your family. DIY “Christmas Olympics” Create a fun competition with holiday-themed events like a gingerbread house-building contest, snowman relay races, cookie decorating speed rounds, or a wrapping paper obstacle course. Award silly medals for “Best Decorator,” “Fastest Wrapper,” or “Snowball Toss Champion.” “Reverse” Christmas Scavenger Hunt Instead of finding things, hide small, meaningful notes or gifts (like handwritten memories or inside jokes) around the house. Each clue leads to the next, and everyone takes turns searching. End the hunt with hot chocolate and sharing favorite family memories. Family Christmas Movie Reenactment Pick a favorite holiday movie (like Home Alone or Elf) and have everyone act out funny scenes together. Use DIY props, costumes, and cameras to film it, then have a “premiere” night with popcorn. It’ll be a goofy family keepsake. “Around the World” Christmas Dinner Research how Christmas is celebrated in other countries and cook a dish or dessert from each. Set up “stations” in the kitchen or dining room, decorate accordingly, and let everyone learn something new while feasting together. Holiday Camp-In by the Tree Set up a cozy indoor camping experience next to the Christmas tree with blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags. Tell Christmas stories, play board games, make s’mores in the oven, and fall asleep under the glow of the lights. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and be sure to subscribe for more Christ-centered recovery encouragement. Until next time, remember: through Him, you don’t just survive—you thrive. And as always, remember when you are walking on this journey through recovery, you are not walking alone. The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Season 8 Episode 17 – Purity Podcast Holiday Edition appeared first on CASTIMONIA.

https://castimonia.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Season-8-Episode-16_-Deborah-Schiller-and-Erick.mp3 On today’s episode, Chris is joined by Deborah Schiller and Erick, where Erick will share his journey from an early childhood porn addiction that escalated into child sexual abuse images and his ultimate arrest. Deborah, has a Master of Science in Counseling, is a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, and she’s here to help us flesh out the nature of this addiction and brings compassion and deep knowledge to this topic. This is an important—yet difficult—topic. It’s one that doesn’t always get a lot of attention because of the shame that goes along with it. I want to acknowledge up front that this conversation might be challenging, and if you’re listening and feel the need to pause or take a moment for yourself, that’s okay. To connect with Deborah, please email her at labyrinthcounseling@gmail.com. To connect with Erick, please contact him at 334-400-2186. If you have questions or want to reach out, please email us at puritypodcast@castimonia.org, and remember that on this path of recovery, you are not walking alone. The post Castimonia Purity Podcast Season 8 Episode 16 – Interview with Deborah Schiller and Erick appeared first on CASTIMONIA.