In this enlightening podcast episode, Leslie Vernick and Julie Sedenko delve into the complex topic of sexual addiction within relationships. Leslie shares her expertise on how individuals and couples can address and overcome this issue. She emphasizes the importance of seeking support, setting boundaries, and fostering personal growth while dealing with sexual addiction. If you or someone you know is grappling with this challenge, this episode provides valuable insights and guidance on the...

This episode dives deep into the crucial role pastors and churches play in tackling domestic abuse. In a world where conservative church environments often struggle with understanding and addressing this pressing issue, our expert hosts, Jeremy Pierre and Greg Wilson, provide valuable insights and guidance. Join us as we explore the challenges pastors face, the importance of empathy and humility, and practical steps for creating a safe space for survivors. Discover how pastors can lead the...

Dee’s life as a pastor’s wife takes a painful turn when she uncovers her husband’s affair, leading to initial emotions of hurt, anger, and confusion. She bravely seeks support and guidance from her pastor, only to be disappointed by the response. But, through the Conquer program. Dee realizes her power to make choices for her future, highlighting the importance of separating herself from an unhealthy relationship and relying on her faith and Conquer to regain control and self-worth. The...

In this episode of ”Relationship Truth Unfiltered,” host Julie Sedenko brings together the most valuable advice of resilient women who’ve faced the challenges of destructive marriages. These candid conversations from 2023 offer a wellspring of wisdom, covering topics like God’s love, self-worth, seeking support, and family priorities. You’ll find practical advice and heartfelt stories that paint a picture of hope, healing, and transformation. It’s a reminder that, no matter your journey,...

Merry Christmas to our podcast listeners! In this episode Leslie and Julie share some Christmas memories and some practical advice, especially for those who find this to be a difficult holiday. The Gift of Presence: Leslie emphasizes the importance of preparation and the opportunity to create a more positive Christmas experience. She recommends starting the day with gratitude and setting intentions for how you want to feel. Leslie explains the significance of recognizing that God is in you...

Today’s episode is a deep dive into the concept of purity culture. Many women have expressed feeling damaged by the pressure to remain pure or to marry someone with whom they had sex before marriage. Leslie and Julie discuss what purity culture is and its impact on individuals.

Title: Empowered Podcast Episode 2 - Managing Anger and Guarding Your Heart During Difficult Times Introduction Welcome back to the Empowered Podcast. In this episode, we delve into the topics of managing anger and guarding your heart during challenging moments. Leslie and Elise share valuable insights and practical advice. Handling Anger in Parenting Leslie shares a personal story of her teenage son challenging her. Emphasizes not letting emotions hijack your values as a parent. Discusses...

In this episode, we hear the powerful and inspiring story of Carrie, a woman who faced multiple divorces and traumatic experiences but found strength and healing through self-discovery and faith. Carrie shares her journey of overcoming childhood trauma, marrying abusive partners, and eventually finding the courage to leave toxic marriages.

In this insightful podcast, Leslie Vernick discusses the critical issue of financial abuse within relationships. She provides valuable advice on recognizing the signs of financial abuse, steps to take when facing this situation, and how to regain control of your life. Leslie’s compassionate and practical guidance empowers women to confront and navigate the complexities of financial abuse, ultimately helping them achieve emotional and financial independence. Tune in to learn how to protect...

In this insightful episode, Leslie Vernick welcomes Rose Ann Forte, the author of ”The Plans He Has for Me,” to discuss the transformative journey of overcoming alcohol addiction. They dive into the profound significance of forgiveness, both towards others and ourselves, as a crucial step in the healing process. Rosanne’s 90-day alcohol-free challenge serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking to break free from destructive habits, emphasizing the importance of healthy self-care and...

    Segment 2: Seeking Guidance and Empowerment Mentorship from a couple within her denomination. Realizing her right to financial independence. Support in confronting deception in her marriage. Involvement of church leadership in her marital issues. Segment 3: The Power of Supportive Community Joining a Bible study and a revealing conversation about divorce. Articulating the decision to leave her abusive marriage. Difficulty in deciding to leave due to various abuses endured. Recognizing...

Segment 1: Identifying Abusive Behavior Leslie and Julie discuss the challenge of identifying abusive behavior in relationships, even when it occurs infrequently. They emphasize the common tendency to believe the best about people while acknowledging that everyone has flaws and dark sides. Segment 2: Evaluating Responses The importance of evaluating the husband's response when he acts abusively. Unhealthy responses, such as blame shifting and deflection, are signs of an unhealthy, controlling...

Trust in God After Divorce Many women struggle with trusting God again after a painful divorce. Georgia shares her experience of feeling betrayed when her husband, a Christian, turned out to be a porn addict. Thers is a common feeling of being cheated by God when life doesn't align with expectations. Georgia emphasizes the importance of being honest with God about our doubts and anger. It's okay to ask why God allowed certain events to happen, even if answers may not always come. Cultivating...

  Understanding the Impact of Internalized Lies The psychological impact of internalized lies among abuse survivors. The debilitating effects of false beliefs on personal growth and recovery. The Lies that Impede Healing Falsehoods hindering women's capacity to heal and progress post-abuse. The inclination to blame external factors while neglecting internalized lies. The misconception surrounding divorce and the importance of understanding biblical perspectives in abusive...

In this powerful episode, Jennifer shares her courageous journey of surviving a destructive marriage characterized by coercive control.   Part 1: Unveiling Coercive Control Jennifer reveals the insidious nature of coercive control, including constant threats of abandonment and emotional manipulation. She emphasizes how these actions often went unnoticed because they were subtle but nonetheless destructive. Part 2: The Impact of Coercive Control Julie delves deeper into Jennifer's experiences,...

Julie Sedenko welcomes special guest Geri, a Conquer member turned mentor, to share her remarkable journey of transformation. Geri candidly discusses her experiences with abuse, the misconceptions about forgiveness and reconciliation, and how Conquer provided her with the strength and support needed to break free from an unhealthy marriage. Her story reflects the importance of cultivating a deep relationship with God, embracing self-love, and finding healing and freedom from the chains of...

Leslie's special guest on this episode is Sheila Gregoire, author of "She Deserves Better" and "The Great Sex Rescue." Together Sheila and Leslie delve into debunking harmful stereotypes and fostering meaningful connections with your daughters. Segment 1: Harmful Beliefs About Girls and Their Consequences: Sheila discusses (and debunks) the damaging belief that girls talk excessively and its adverse effects on their lives. Explore the potential consequences of buying into this stereotype,...

No Relationship is perfect. But when does "not perfect" cross the line into abuse? That's the question Leslie answers in today's episode.  1. Types of Relationships: Differentiate between difficult, disappointing, and destructive marriages. Difficulties can bring couples closer if handled maturely. There are many external stressors in marriages. 2. Disappointing Marriages: Discuss common expectations that lead to disappointment. Emphasize the importance of accepting imperfections...

In this show Julie Sedenko has a heartfelt conversation with Debbie, a woman who is rebuilding her life after a painful marriage.   Part 1: The Early Years and Marriage: Debbie's background and early life. How she met her future husband. The early stages of their relationship and marriage. Part 2: Recognizing Abuse: The signs and patterns of emotional and verbal abuse in Debbie's marriage. How Debbie came to recognize the abuse she was experiencing. Attempts to seek counseling and the...

Leslie interviews Jill Savage, host of the No More Perfect Podcast, a creator of online courses, and the author of 14 books, including "No More Perfect Moms" and "No More Perfect Marriages." The episode dives deep into Jill's personal journey of resilience, redemption, and unconditional love in the face of a significant marital detour. The Marital Detour and Learning to Love Unconditionally: Jill's husband, Mark, resigned from pastoral ministry after 20 years, a decision that initiated their...

In this episode, Leslie & Julie discuss the following listener questions/topics: How does staying calm help others see their own behavior more clearly? What distinguishes appropriate reactions from inappropriate ones? How should one handle a spouse who insists on arguing in front of children? What advice can you provide for overcoming the fear of speaking up and handling criticism? How can one respond to a spouse who uses profanity and initiates fights? What strategies can be employed to...

In this episode, Julie Sedenko & Leslie Vernick discuss the importance and the challenges of speaking up in relationships, particularly in difficult or destructive marriages. The Challenge of Speaking Up: In destructive marriages, speaking up can be scary and unsafe. Balancing the need to speak up for oneself with the potential negative responses. Referencing Matthew 7, where Jesus warns about casting pearls before swine. The Value of Learning to Speak Up: Emphasizing the importance of...

In this episode of "Relationship Truth Unfiltered," join host Julie Sedenko in a powerful conversation with Kim, a courageous woman who shares her story of transformation from a brutally destructive marriage marred by serial infidelity and emotional abuse. Kim's journey of discovering the truth, finding her self-worth, and rebuilding her life offers hope and inspiration to women facing similar challenges. From the struggles of uncovering deception to the healing process of breaking free and...

Empowering Survivors and Shining Light: Addressing Abuse in Churches Introduction: Guest: Rachel Denhollander - attorney, author, advocate, educator. Role in exposing sexual abuse, notably Dr. Larry Nassar's abuse in USA Gymnastics. Highlighting the importance of discussing abuse in religious contexts. Rachel's Background: Pursuit of justice against Dr. Larry Nassar. Over 300 survivors, including Olympic medalists, came forward. Book "What's a Girl Worth?" recounts her journey and exposes the...

Introduction: The importance of mutual respect and understanding in a partnership. Part 1: Understanding Unhealthy Relationship Dynamics Traditional perspectives on gender roles and submission in relationships. Misconceptions around submission and headship. The danger of oppressive relationships and their impact on women's well-being. The need for women to reclaim their identity and voice. Part 2: Communicating and Asserting Boundaries The importance of respectful communication in...