Ep.54 Connecting to Teens Through Curiosity : A Conversation with Joshua De La Cruz

Ep.55 Connection Over Shame: Talking to Kids about Sex and Porn

In this episode of Faith & Feels, I sit down with Kristen Whitmore for a heartfelt conversation about parenting, sexuality, pornography, and the importance of creating safe and honest conversations with our children. Together, we explore why parents play such an important role in initiating these discussions, navigating the awkwardness that can come with them, and helping children develop healthy understanding and connection rather than shame. We also talk about personal experiences, sexual brokenness, emotional safety, and the impact shame can have on both parents and children. Kristen and I discuss the importance of understanding trauma, fostering emotional connection within families and relationships, and equipping kids to navigate today’s culture with wisdom, honesty, and grace. Throughout the episode, we emphasize that parents do not need to approach these conversations perfectly—just intentionally, openly, and with compassion. We also reflect on the role of faith, community, and the church in supporting families through these often difficult but deeply important conversations. Recommended Resources: www.protectyoungeyes.com [http://www.protectyoungeyes.com] http://www.youtube.com/@WithThePerrys [http://www.youtube.com/@WithThePerrys] https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sex-sexual-trauma-and-gods-design-with-dr-juli-slattery/id1458672189?i=1000761065464 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sex-sexual-trauma-and-gods-design-with-dr-juli-slattery/id1458672189?i=1000761065464] "Sex, Sexual Trauma, and God's Design with Dr.Julie" Podcast *For info on Kristen Whitmore, visit www.renewchurchoc.com [http://www.renewchurchoc.com] www.renewchurchoc.com/meet-the-staff Books to Read with Kids on Sex, Porn, Our Bodies: Good Pictures Bad Pictures by Kristen Jenson 7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality by Luke Gilkerson God Made All of Me by Justin and Lindsey Holcomb *Pixabay Music: "In Plus Music" and "Viacheslavstarostin" Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Faith in Fields 01:39 The Importance of Open Conversations about Sexuality 04:00 Personal Experiences with Sexual Education 09:19 Establishing a Safe Space for Discussions 15:35 Navigating Awkwardness in Conversations 21:24 Addressing Pornography and Its Impact 25:17 Understanding Shame and Vulnerability 28:12 Navigating Shame in Parenting and Sexuality 30:03 Exploring Sexual Trauma and God's Design 34:51 Understanding Sexual Brokenness in Youth 38:15 Unmet Sexual Needs and Masculinity 42:07 The Importance of Emotional Connection 46:55 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations 51:03 Finding Community and Support in the Church

Ep.54 Connecting to Teens Through Curiosity : A Conversation with Joshua De La Cruz

In this episode, I sit down with Joshua De La Cruz, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, to talk about what teens are really facing in today’s digital world. We explore everything from video game overuse to the deeper emotional needs underneath behavior, and how parents can show up with more curiosity, authenticity, and compassion. Josh shares practical insight on building stronger relationships with teens and creating spaces where they feel seen, understood, and supported. If you’d like to connect with Josh or learn more about his work, you can visit www.delacruztherapy.com [http://www.delacruztherapy.com]. Takeaways: Joshua De La Cruz is passionate about supporting teens. Video game addiction is a common issue among teens. Building connections with youth requires compassion and curiosity. Understanding the underlying needs behind addiction is crucial. Parents often seek therapy out of desperation. Creating a safe space for teens to express themselves is vital. The importance of creativity in youth cannot be overlooked. Relationships with young clients can be deeply impactful. Parents should approach their teens with authenticity and humility. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Faith & Feels 01:54 Meet Joshua De La Cruz: A Journey into Mental Health 07:03 Understanding Teen Challenges in a Digital World 11:17 The Impact of Video Game Addiction 18:44 Building Compassionate Connections with Teens 22:07 The Importance of Creativity in Youth 27:14 Valuing Relationships with Young Clients 35:47 Advice for Parents: Connecting with Teens *Pixabay Music : "Viacheslavstarostin" "In Plus Music"

Ep. 53 Hope for the Man in Recovery with Dr. Kervins Clement

In this episode of Faith & Feels, I sit down with Dr. Kervins Clement, CSAT, founder of Clement Counseling and Consulting who is trained in sex addiction, Gottman Method, EFT, and EMDR. We dive into a profound conversation about the intersections of trauma, sexuality, and healing. We talk about the concept of eroticized rage, the complexities of shame in sexual experiences, and the importance of self-compassion in the healing journey. Dr. Clement shares his insights on reclaiming sexual identity and intimacy, and we discuss the need for more open and honest conversations about sexuality within the church and beyond. We close the episode with encouragement for those in recovery, talking about the importance of doing the work for yourself and recognizing that healing is a continuous journey. Resources: https://www.youtube.com/@DrKervinsClement [https://www.youtube.com/@DrKervinsClement] Takeaways: Today's episode includes sensitive topics around sexual health and trauma. Eroticized rage is when feelings of anger become intertwined with sexual arousal. The body responds to sensations without choosing what's right or wrong. Shame can complicate the understanding of sexual arousal in trauma survivors. Healing involves reclaiming one's sexual identity and desires. Self-compassion is crucial in the healing process. Conversations about sex should be normalized to reduce shame. Recovery requires hard work, accountability, and ownership. You are not your addiction; focus on your health and well-being. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Healing and Faith 01:48 Meet Dr. Kervins Clement: Background and Expertise 09:02 Understanding Eroticized Rage 19:44 Navigating Shame and Trauma in Sexuality 27:40 Reclaiming Sexual Identity and Intimacy 39:25 The Importance of Self-Compassion 46:22 Encouragement for Those in Recovery Pixabay Music : "In plus Music" "Viacheslavstarostin"

Ep. 52 Sex and Love Addiction in the Church - The Full Conversation ( With Pastor Wilson & Kristen)

(*Fully Updated Version from Episode 44) In this eye opening and honest conversation, I’m joined by Kristen Whitmore and Pastor Wilson Wang from Renew Church on the SOLA Leaders Podcast to talk about a topic the Church often avoids — sex and love addiction. Together, we explore the reality that many believers silently struggle with pornography, shame, and relational brokenness, and why creating safe, grace-filled spaces for these conversations is essential for true healing. I share my personal journey into becoming a therapist and how my own story shaped my passion for integrated healing — where faith, emotional health, and relationships come together. In this episode, we unpack the difference between sexual addiction and love addiction, the deeper longing for connection and approval beneath these patterns, and the ripple effects pornography has on individuals, marriages, and mental health. We also talk about why accountability, community, and honest discipleship are key to recovery — and how the Church can move from silence to support. Most importantly, this conversation is a reminder that no one is beyond hope. Freedom, transformation, and wholeness are possible when we step out of isolation and into the light. If you’ve ever felt stuck in shame, longed for deeper healing, or wondered how the Church can respond with both truth and compassion, this episode is for you. *This episode belongs to Sola Network Leaders Podcast. For more info, visit www.sola.network.com [http://www.sola.network.com] Recommendations: www.joinrelay.app [http://www.joinrelay.app] www.sherecovery.org [http://www.sherecovery.org] www.puredesireministries.org [http://www.puredesireministries.org] www.fightthenewdrug.com [http://www.fightthenewdrug.com] www.sa.org [http://www.sa.org] Books: "Beyond the Porn Phenomenon" by Barna Report "Unwanted" by Jay Stringer "Facing Love Addiction" by Pia Mellody *Pixabay Music : "Viacheslavstarrostin" Sound Bites: "This podcast is for those who love Jesus." "We talk about sex and love addiction in the church." "Sex addiction is a hidden and prevalent sin." "Love addiction stems from abandonment." "We want to normalize these conversations." "We need accountability to fight this fight." "The opposite of addiction isn't sobriety, it's connection." "There's hope, there's transformation available." "You are not alone in this struggle." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Faith in Fields 01:34 Exploring Sexual and Love Addiction 02:57 Rika's Journey to Therapy 11:12 Understanding Love Addiction 13:54 Bringing Conversations to the Church 16:46 Creating Safe Spaces for Women 19:32 The Role of Accountability in Recovery 23:21 Engaging in Conversations about Sexual Addiction 28:09 Statistics on Sexual Addiction 31:17 The Damaging Effects of Pornography 34:11 The Importance of Connection in Recovery 39:37 Words of Hope for Ministry Leaders

Ep. 51 Chit Chat with Me & the Hubs

Happy New Year 2026 Everyone! This episode is just a casual conversation with me and my husband, Henry. We’re sharing a little about what life has been like lately, a goal we have for the new year, and some encouraging moments from our journey with therapy and God. Sit back, relax, and just hang out with us. I’ll be posting once a month now (with maybe an occasional surprise bonus episode). I’m hoping to preserve more energy for my personal relationships, my spiritual community, and a few side projects. Thank you for walking alongside me. I hope these conversations continue to bring you small doses of joy and encouragement. *Resources mentioned : www.fullyhealth.org [http://www.fullyhealth.org] "Run to the Father "Worship Song by Cody Carnes Pixabay Music : "Calm Soft Music"