Restored: Helping Children of Divorce

What happens when you become your parents' emotional confidant—their therapist—during a divorce? At first, it might feel like you're helping. But eventually, it backfires and might even break you. That's what happened to Cole. In this episode, we explore:How he went through his parents' separation twice—and how each one affected him differentlyHow he's slowly rebuilding family relationships after stepping away to healWhy even small decisions felt impossible—and how he learned to choose with confidenceIf you've ever acted as your parents' therapist—or felt crushed by their divorce or the chaos at home—this episode is for you.Share Your StoryGet Dakota's FREE Guide, The Biggest Fitness Mistakes to AvoidWhy you should define your fears instead of your goals | Tim Ferriss | TED#036: Healthy Relationships Are Impossible Without BoundariesCelebrate Recovery CommunityShownotes

So many of us feel depleted and exhausted, yet we might not know why. This is especially true for those of us from divorced or broken families. Research shows that children of divorce typically have worse physical health and more emotional problems. But thankfully, that doesn't have to be your story. Going from depleted to healthy on every level is not only doable—but simpler than you think, according to my guest.In this episode, we discuss:9 often-overlooked pillars of health that could be sabotaging your wellness.The top 4 areas of health where most people need to start. Quick and simple tips you probably haven't heard to feel and be your best.If you've struggled with your health in any way or just desire to be healthier, this episode is for you.Enroll in Reform OnlineFor 10% off, use code: RESTORED10 (valid until June 15, 2025) Comment end  Visit ReformWellness.coGet Dakota's FREE Guide, The Biggest Fitness Mistakes to AvoidView Restored's ResourcesShownotes

AJ had a normal life as a college student-athlete. But one night, a violent car accident left AJ paralyzed from the waist down. What started as 15 minutes of hell has transformed into what he calls “The best thing that's happened to me.” In this episode, you'll hear:The detailed story of the accident and the unexplainable emotions he experienced in the minutes after the accidentThe two things that helped him cope and beat feeling like a perpetual victimWhat AJ said to the driver of the vehicle and the miracles and transformations that have resulted from his injuryIf you've endured trauma, a horrible injury, or you're just going through an intense season of suffering, this episode is for you.Follow AJ:InstagramTikTokYouTubeEmail: Ajoftherose@gmail.comGet Dakota's FREE Guide, The Biggest Fitness Mistakes to AvoidView Restored's ResourcesShownotes

At the root of our culture's many problems is the breakdown of marriages and families. My guest shares sobering statistics, such as that “there are 31% less marriages annually now than in the year 2000” and there are “65% less marriages now than in the year 1970.” He says this is hugely contributing to the loneliness crisis today. Thankfully, there is a cure, which we discuss in this episode, plus:How the lonelinest group of people at church aren't the oldEncouragement for young people from broken families who fear love and marriageWhat a healthy relationship looks like and how to build it, including the 5 stages of healthy relationshipsIf you've been affected by the breakdown of marriages and families, this episode is for you.Buy JP's Book: The Church's Strategic Move to Save Faith and Family in AmericaGet Dakota's FREE Guide, The Biggest Fitness Mistakes to AvoidView Restored's ResourcesShownotes

Growing up, Dr. Gerry experienced deep turmoil at home. His father was abusive, and his parents' marriage was full of conflict. When they eventually divorced, he felt like he lost both parents. Feeling alone, he became highly independent. Thankfully, he found healing, and today he helps others heal as a therapist. In this episode, we discuss:How Internal Family Systems (IFS) and “parts work” can help you heal emotional wounds and improve your relationships.The way our parts interact with our significant other—and how to avoid choosing a spouse from a wounded part of you.What a mother wound is and how it affects youHow movies like Inside Out, Encanto, and even Avengers' movies illustrate “parts work” and the healing journey.If you have perhaps sustained a mother wound or want to heal using Internal Family Systems, this episode is for you.Get Dakota's FREE Guide: The Biggest Fitness Mistakes to AvoidBuy Dr. Gerry's Book: Litanies of the Heart: Relieving Post-Traumatic Stress and Calming Anxiety through Healing Our PartsView Dr. Gerry's Team or schedule a FREE 15 min consultVisit Souls & HeartsView Restored's ResourcesShownotes

So many of us from divorced or broken families fear repeating our parents' mistakes. If you want to avoid that, one of the keys is building virtue. But what is virtue? How do you build it? And what virtues might you acquire?My guest today wrote Superhabits, an amazing new book on virtue. He answers those questions, plus:How to override the unconscious bad habits we inherited in our familiesOne habit that could save your marriage before it starts and what virtues to look for in a potential spouseWhy virtue, not just therapy, is the key to healing family woundsIf you're struggling with bad habits or you want to build good habits, this episode is for you.View Restored's ResourcesBuy Book Super Habits by Dr. Andrew AbelaGrow Virtue app ShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

After a relapse into alcoholism, Ben's mom left him, his family, and the country for years when he was just 5 years old. When she returned, he struggled in his relationship with her but placed proper boundaries and found some resolution. But his mom's death in Ben's late 20s brought new pain. In this episode, you'll hear his wild story, plus:The resolution he experienced with his mom and an unexpected tactic that's helped him heal after his mom's deathThe place of justice, mercy, and blame after your parents' divorceHow he was skeptical of marriage and what taught him that a good family is possibleIf you're struggle in your relationship with mom or a parent died without you resolving things with them, this episode is for you.View Restored's ResourcesShare Your StoryGet Dakota's FREE guide: The Biggest Fitness Mistakes to AvoidEmail Ben: benjamin.pluta@focus.orgSupport BenShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

Has your parents' divorce or broken family brought pain into your life? Do you fear repeating the cycle of dysfunction or divorce?You're not alone—millions face these often unspoken struggles: hidden wounds, emotional problems, broken relationships, and destructive habits. Thankfully, you're not destined to repeat your family's dysfunction. In this episode, you'll hear a breakout talk from the SEEK25 conference where you'll discover the two keys to breaking that cycle and learn actionable tips to build healthy relationships.About the Speaker:Endorsed by Jason Evert and Dr. Bob Schuchts, Joey Pontarelli has spoken across the U.S. and internationally.He is the author of the book “It's Not Your Fault” and hosts the podcast, “Restored: Helping Children of Divorce,” which has helped thousands of young people.He has been a guest on EWTN's TV and radio shows, Dr. Bob Schuchts's “Restore the Glory” podcast, Jason Evert's “Lust is Boring” podcast, and Relevant Radio's “The Drew Mariani Show.”Joey is married to Brigid, and they love life with their two kids, Lucy and John Paul.Get the ResourcesBook a TalkSchedule a Meeting with Restored's TeamShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

At age 5, Dylan's parents divorced. Visitation brought challenges, but he learned to appreciate the time it gave him with his dad, who really helped him grow. From that, he learned that good can come from broken situations.In today's episodes, we also discuss topics like:How we need father figures, ideally our dads, in order to become men, find our strength, and learn what to do with itThe challenges and blessing of a stepfamilyHow your value isn't measured by your performance or exterior qualitiesIf you're from a blended family, you've questioned your value, you've felt unwanted, or you're missing a father figure in your life, this episode is for you.Visit Dylan's website, RadicalLoveCommunity.comFollow Dylan on Instagram, YouTube, or FacebookBuy the Book: God's Little KiddoView Restored's ResourcesShare Your StoryShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

The hardest part of your parents' divorce or family breakdown is seeing the people you love suffer. That was true for my guest today who happens to be my older brother, Anthony: Watching our siblings struggle was the hardest part for him.In this episode, you'll hear us compare stories about our parents' divorce from our perspectives as siblings, plus:How Anthony had a sense of, “This is not how things ought to be” and a little about how a family ought to be.How he was automatically made the man of the house when he shouldn't have been and the effects of that.How healing is not a one-size-fits-all, the imperfections of certain types of therapy, and a new healing method that's been effective for him.To parents listening: Tips on discussing your divorce with your children without oversharing.If your parents are divorced or struggling in their marriage and watching your siblings suffer has been hard for you, this episode is especially for you.Dakota Lane Fitness: Schedule a FREE ConsultGet Dakota's FREE Guide: The Biggest Fitness Mistakes to AvoidShare Your StoryView Restored's ResourcesTo request Anthony's email address, email podcast@restoredministry.comShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

So many of us from broken families end up dating or marrying someone from an intact family. But that presents challenges, which we discuss in this episode with an amazing married couple where one spouse comes from a broken family and the other is from an intact family. We also discuss questions like:What did you fear about marriage? Maggie opens up about her fear of someone cheating on her.How have you handled conflict and how has marriage brought you joy?How do you choose the right person who won't change after the wedding?If you're from a broken family dating or marrying someone from an intact family, or vice versa, this episode is for you.Get Paul J. Kim's Course: A Catholic Guide to AdultingGet 10% off with the code: RESTOREDDakota Lane Fitness: Schedule a FREE ConsultGet Dakota's FREE Guide: The Biggest Fitness Mistakes to AvoidView Restored's ResourceGet the Book or FREE chapters: It's Not Your FaultShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

If you come from a divorced or broken family, this show is for you. We help you heal your brokenness, navigate the challenges, and build healthy relationships, so you can break that cycle and build a better life. In this episode, you'll hear highlight clips from the podcast in 2024.If you're new to the podcast, this is the perfect way to sample our content and learn how it will help you. If you're a longtime listener, this is the perfect episode to share with someone you know who needs to hear it.View Restored's ResourcesGet the Book or FREE chapters: It's Not Your FaultGet the Guide: 5 Tips to Navigate the Holidays in a Broken FamilyEpisodes featured:#115: The Antidote to a Life of Emptiness | Dr. Andrew & Sarah Swafford#120: Freedom You Never Tasted But Always Wanted | Jake Khym, MA#121: A Cure for Feeling Needy or Helpless | Margaret Vasquez#123: What I Wish Never Happened, I Am The Most Grateful For | Jack Beers#126: Former Porn Actress: Over 90% of People in Porn are from Broken Families | Bree Solstad#130: An Exercise to Heal | Dr. Peter Malinoski#132: Why Your Wounds & Subconscious Are Ruling Your Life | Dr. Gregory Bottaro#136: Relationship Advice for Young People from Broken Families | Jackie & Bobby AngelShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

If you come from a divorced family, research says you're more likely to get divorced. But does that mean you're doomed to that fate? My guest today says a resounding no. She and her husband, also a child of divorce, have built a 24-year-long happy marriage with 3 children. Her message for you? You can do the same. In this episode, we discuss: How she's overcome her fear of getting divorced and how marriage has actually been healing for her.How she felt her father's absence as a young person and how she ultimately forgave him.How to become more confident and resilient or grittyIf you're afraid of getting divorced, you want to forgive your parents, or you want to become tougher, this episode is for you.Share Your StoryGet the Guide: 5 Tips to Navigate the Holidays in a Broken FamilyGet the Book or FREE chapters: It's Not Your FaultContact Samantha: samantha.hall328@icloud.comShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

The biggest area of struggle for young people from divorced or broken families is in romantic relationships. Why so much struggle? In short, we were poorly trained in how to love, so we feel incompetent at it and fear repeating our parents' mistakes. So, how can you overcome that fear and relearn how to love? My guests answer that question and more: How do you discern whether a lack of peace in a relationship is because of your brokenness or because the relationship isn't right?What topics does a couple need to discuss and agree upon before marriage?What's been the most helpful advice you've used in handling conflict?If you're from a divorced or dysfunctional family and you want to break that cycle and build a beautiful marriage and family, this episode is for you.Follow Jackie & BobbyWebsite: JackieandBobby.comInstagram: @jackiefrancoisInstagram: @bobby.angelYouTube: Conversations with Jackie & BobbyListen on AppleListen on SpotifyYouTube: Ascension Presents playlist: Jackie & BobbyMentorship with Bobby: Schedule a FREE phone consultation with BobbyIf you need it, tell Bobby you heard him here and ask for a discount for your first month!Get the Guide: 5 Tips to Navigate the Holidays in a Broken FamilyGet the Book or FREE chapters: It's Not Your FaultShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

Whether holidays with your divorced or separated parents are new or you've done it numerous times, this episode is for you. In it, you'll get 5 practical tips to better navigate the holidays in your broken family, so they're less stressful and more enjoyable.Get the Guide: 5 Tips to Navigate the Holidays in a Broken FamilyShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us. We'll answer on the show as soon as we're able. You can be anonymous if you'd like!

While the rest of the world is filled with holiday cheer, people like us from divorced or broken families usually feel very differently. While you can't magically make the holidays happy and drama-free, what if there was a way to make them less stressful and more enjoyable? That's what we'll discuss in this episode, plus:The challenges that come from navigating 3 ChristmasesSome typical fears and barriers that complicate the holidays and tips to handle themA FREE resource to help you navigate the holidays, so they're less stressful and more enjoyableGet the Guide: 5 Tips to Navigate the Holidays in a Broken FamilyShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us.

Technology certainly has benefits, but there are dangers as well. Sadly, our misuse of technology is causing us to be more depressed, more anxious, less happy, and less healthy than ever before. Perhaps worst of all, it destroys our ability to heal, grow, and build healthy relationships. In this episode, we dive into that with my guest, Andrew Laubacher, plus:Alarming data on how misusing tech is hurting us, especially young peopleHow to build an intentional relationship with technologyA novel yet simple solution to help you find freedom from digital addictionVisit Humanality.orgSupport HumanalityComing Soon: 30-Day Tech Detox Challenge via HallowGet the Mini-Course: Why You Feel BrokenGet the Guide: 5 Tips to Navigate the Holidays in a Broken FamilyShownotesQuestion for Joey or our guests? Text us.

Have a question for Joey or our guests? Text us.Carl Jung once said, “Unless you make the subconscious conscious, it will rule your life and you will call it fate.” In this episode, Dr. Greg Bottaro explains why our untreated wounds and our subconscious rule our lives, often without us knowing it. We also discuss:How his parents' divorce impacted him and how he found tremendous healingDr. Bottaro answers your questions, such as:How do you heal?How do I overcome my extreme fear of marriage and intimacy?How can you reconcile and build a strong relationship with parents who've been blind for years to the harm their divorce caused for me and my siblings?And many more questions related to healing, relationships, your parents, helping others, and even your relationship with God.What exactly are abuse and narcissism?A NEW resource that's an alternative to therapy.Register for the CatholicPsych Open HouseSchedule a FREE mentorship consultation (Get 10% off your first month of mentorship with the code: RESTORED24 )Listen to Dr. Bottaro's podcast, Being HumanListen to 9 Ways to Pay for CounselingSubmit your question for the showView Restored's ResourcesShownotes

Have a question for Joey or our guests? Text us.After 24 years of marriage, Jordana's parents divorced. Overall, her experience of family felt tense, stressful, and unstable. Once she learned of her parents' divorce, she went into problem-solver mode, taking on the role of mother for her siblings. In this episode, you'll hear us discuss all of that, plus: How filling a parent role isn't ideal, but sometimes necessary for a season, and how to handle the guilt about moving forward in your life.Her struggles with communicating in relationships and with anxiety overallWhy it's so helpful to put your feelings into words, even though it seems too simple to helpView Restored's ResourcesShare Your StoryShownotes

Have a question for Joey or our guests? Text us.If you're like me, you've experienced trauma or brokenness in your life which has led you to seek healing. One method of healing used in therapy is Internal Family Systems. But what exactly is it? And how can it help you?My guest today, a psychologist and expert in Internal Family Systems, answers those questions, plus:A healing exercise that you can do alongside me during this episodeThe result of the exercise for me and both of our thoughts on itWhy your subconscious is ruling your lifeListen to The Interior Integration for Catholics PodcastVisit Dr. Peter's Souls and HeartsView Restored's ResourcesShownotes

We talk a lot about being healthy and whole, but what exactly does it mean to be healthy and whole?We dive into that topic in this episode with a man who's been accomplished as a CEO but has also worked hard on himself as a husband and father, plus:Why honesty and vulnerability are essential for healing and growth, and how forgiveness has been very healing for himThe 4 stages of growth required to love wellA resource for leaders, pastors, and seminariansVisit ChrismPriest.comEmail Matt: matt@chrismpriest.comView Restored's ResourcesVisit BlackStoneFilms.coShownotes

Emma was 14 years old when her parents divorced, but the dysfunction at home had been happening for years. In this episode, she shares how the dysfunction, divorce, and abuse have affected her. We also discuss:How she overcame victim mentalityHow abuse differs from bad behaviorWhat helped her heal and how her life is better now as a wife and motherShare Your Story with RestoredView Restored's ResourcesEmail Emma: Visit BlackstoneFilms.coStart Talking to Your Kids about Sex: A Practical Guide for CatholicsShownotes

A doctor of functional neurology joins us to explain a new, cutting edge healing science that's used to heal dysfunction in our bodies and minds, and help us live and perform at our best. It's already being used by professional athletes and even Navy SEALs. We dive into what it is and how it can help you, plus:Why people from divorced families struggle more in relationships from a scientific standpointWhy one-size-fits-all doesn't work with healing - it must be personal and custom3 amazing stories of people who've benefited from functional neurology, including a boy who was confined to a wheelchair that was able to walkEmail Dr. Paul Link View Restored's ResourcesVisit BlackstoneFilms.coShownotes

Bree Solstad went from being a top-selling porn actress to quitting her job and completely turning her life around. That transformation started because of a trip to Italy. In this episode, she tells us about that and answers questions like:What led you to pornography in the first place?How did your broken family and abandonment from your father play into that?What percentage of performers in porn come from divorced or broken families? It'll shock youWhat has helped you begin to heal your wounds? What would you say to people who believe that porn is harmful and not wrong?Visit Bree's Etsy shop, Ave Maria Every DayFollow Bree on Twitter and Instagram Listen to the Healing Sexual Brokenness seriesFor Men: Buy the Book: Forged: 33 Days Toward Freedom by Jason Evert and Matt FraddFor Women: Join a Magdala Ministries groupWatch Sound of FreedomVisit FightTheNewDrug.orgVisit BlackstoneFilms.coFor help with suicidal thoughts or behaviors, call or text 988, or go here.Shownotes

For people like us from divorced and broken families, love and marriage can be extra scary. After my parents separated, I swore, “If this is where marriage leads, I want nothing to do with it.”But thankfully, love and marriage aren't doomed to fail. Marriage isn't easy, but it can be beautiful and joyful. More importantly, it can help you grow into a better, stronger, and more virtuous person. Today, we're joined by a married couple to discuss all of that, plus:The struggles they've faced within their marriage, especially around unmet expectations and brokennessThe joy and beauty that they've experienced in their marriage and familyWhat topics you need to discuss before you get marriedListen to All Things Nueva: Apple, SpotifyFollow Michael & Rachel: Instagram, Facebook, InstagramGet the Free Guide: 7 Tips to Build Healthy Relationships and a Divorce-Proof MarriageVisit BlackstoneFilms.coShownotes

For many of us from divorced families, we unconsciously want our parents to resolve their problems and get back together. Even if that isn't possible due to abuse or other extreme scenarios, we can't help but want our family to be whole. Today's guest felt that desire for his parents and family. In this episode, we discuss that and more:How anger, overeating, and lots of activities became his coping mechanismsHow his parents' divorce has affected him differently in different chapters of his lifeHow much should parents tell their kids about the divorce?What he's done to heal and grow, and how his life is better nowShare Your StoryVisit BlackStoneFilms.coView Restored's ResourcesShownotes

At a young age, Jack learned he had an incurable disease. That naturally brought lots of physical and emotional pain into his life. But through that suffering, the lessons he learned and the transformation he experienced led him to say, “The thing I wish most never happened, I am most grateful for.” In this episode, we discuss what led to that transformation and more:The bitterness and loneliness he felt and how his life looks nowOur tendency to “replay” the trauma we've endured and what to do if you feel stuckWhy we need mentors in our lives to guide and challenge us, but also to help us see our blindspotsJackBeers.comTheCatholicMentor.comSchedule a FREE call with JackView Restored's ResourcesDakotaLaneFitness.comShownotes

With so many marriages and families falling apart, the natural question is: What has caused all these broken marriages and families?In this episode, Dr. John Bishop unveils the surprising root cause, plus:The crisis of masculinity facing our world right nowThe proper place of happiness within marriageAn awesome digital hack to protect yourself and your relationshipsMyForge.orgDakotaLaneFitness.comFight the new drugView Restored's ResourcesBuy Jason Evert's booklet, Pure IntimacyBuy Jason Evert's talk, Green SexShownotes

So many people from broken families struggle with feeling helpless or needy. Our efforts to heal or grow might even feel fruitless like tires spinning in mud that never gain traction. We put in effort in learning, but transformation isn't happening. Whether that describes you or someone you know (like a friend, parent, or anyone else), this episode will help you!  In it, you'll learn: The simple solution to beat neediness and helplessnessWhy struggles are actually good for youThe most important question you can ask to move beyond griefMargaret's WebsiteDakota Lane FitnessBuy Margaret's Book: FearlessBuy Margaret's Book: More Than WordsGet Margaret's Course: Broken to WholeShownotes

Two years into marriage, Jake found himself enslaved to a sexual addiction. He longed for freedom but felt very stuck. As a result, he lived a double life, hiding his unwanted behavior from his wife.  But one random day, it all came to light. At that moment, he thought his marriage was over. In this episode, he shares what happened next, plus:What kept his marriage from falling apart?How a wound of abandonment from his family drove his addiction6 tips to break free from sexual compulsion or addictionGo to Jake's Website & ResourcesListen to our series, Healing Sexual BrokennessGo to Dakota Lane FitnessShownotes

After her parents divorced, my guest felt abandoned and badly hoped it was all a dream that she could just wake up from. Dealing with all the brokenness that followed led her down a path of feeling stuck and thinking her brokenness defined her. Thankfully, she realized that “‘broken' is what happened to me, not who I am.” In this episode, we touch on that and more:How just having the pain of your parents' divorce validated is incredibly helpful and often the first step of healingThe many emotional problems she's had to battle, including anxiety, depression, anger, self-hate, control, and lonelinessThe tendency in people like us to allow fear to hold us back and cause us to play it safe, but how healing can free us from fearShare Your StoryView Restored's ResourcesShownotes

If you're like me, you never saw conflict resolved peacefully in your family. As a result, you might feel a bit lost about how to resolve conflict in your life, especially in your relationships. If that's you, this episode will help. In it, a married couple joins to share tips they've learned on resolving conflict, plus:Why it's important to let small things go, but how letting too much go can lead to resentmentThe four levels of learning any skillAdvice to someone from an intact family who's dating, engaged, or even married to someone from a broken familyGet FREE Guide: 7 Tips to Build Healthy Relationships & a Divorce-Proof MarriageVisit Dakota Lane FitnessShownotes

So many divorces happen because one spouse follows their desires at the expense of their vows. That happened in the family of my guest today. In this episode, we cover:How her family's dysfunction led to struggles with gender and sexualityThe beautiful transformation she's experienced and even seen in her parentsThe biggest lie about getting divorcedA new organization that's fighting for children's rightsShare Your StoryView Restored's ResourcesFollow Jenn's Blog, Do Better TheologyVisit Them Before UsVisit Dakota Lane FitnessShownotes

Today we're sharing a podcast where I was interviewed by two therapists, Dr. Bob Schuchts and Jake Khym, on their podcast, Restore the Glory. Joey especially opens up about his struggles in his relationship with God, plus they discuss:When we don't face our wounds, we typically try to outrun them. Since divorce is a wound of broken love, the antidote is authentic love.Why it's so helpful to spend time with a couple who has a healthy marriage. Donate to RestoredMeet with Joey for Restored's Donor PitchVisit Dakota Lane FitnessListen to the Restore the Glory podcastVisit JPII Healing CenterShownotes

It's said that Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with the song still in them.” Doesn't that describe our culture? A culture that's hooked on comfort and so void of meaning. But thankfully, Dr. Andrew and Sarah Swafford have a solution to that problem. In this episode, we discuss:What holds us back from lives and relationships full of meaning?What's needed to live a life of meaning and happiness?How do we navigate the dating scene today?How can you heal your brokenness?If you've ever felt that ache of wanting more from life, don't miss this episode.Buy the Book: Gift & Grit: How Heroic Virtue Can Change Your Life and RelationshipsDonate to RestoredMeet with Joey for Restored's Donor PitchVisit Dakota Lane FitnessShownotes

When your parents divorce, you almost always lose one or both parents physically or emotionally. But as our guest today says, we're not meant to go through life without the mentorship of a father and a mother. In this episode, Nicole Rodriguez shares the immense healing she's experienced through parents who were not her own. We also discuss:How her parents' divorce started with infidelity and led her to feeling abandoned and lonelyThe emotional numbness and skepticism toward emotion that she experiencedHow she felt doomed to repeat the cycle of dysfunction and divorce, but thankfully overcame thatBuy the Book: Undone: Freeing Your Feminine Heart from the Knots of Fear and ShameAttend the Undone Women's ConferenceShare Your StoryShownotes

Trauma, such as your parents' divorce or extreme family dysfunction, doesn't only affect your emotions. It affects your body too. It quite literally has physical effects. In this episode, Dr. Christopher Genn, a physical therapist and expert in applied kinesiology, explains how our bodies respond to trauma and how we can heal. Plus, we discuss:A new therapy to treat pain, trauma, and even rewire bad habitsThe story of a girl enduring her parents' divorce who became physically debilitated How we often lie to ourselves about our families, parents, and past - and why that's a barrier to healingSchedule a Consult with Dr. GennGet the Course: Broken to WholeVisit Dr. Genn's WebsiteShownotes

In this episode, you'll hear highlight clips from the podcast in 2023. This episode, and the entire podcast, will help you heal from the trauma of your parents' divorce, separation, or broken marriage, so you can break the cycle. If you're new to the podcast, this is the perfect way to sample our content and learn how it will help you. If you're a longtime listener, this is the perfect episode to share with someone you know who needs to hear it.Restored's WebsiteShownotes

There's an extremely popular lie about how divorce affects the children. In this episode, we discuss that lie with my guest who is an only child from a divorced family, plus:The loneliness, addiction, and social problems that stemmed from his family's breakdownThe anger and even hatred he felt toward his parents and how he feels nowA unique thing he and his wife did before they were married to strengthen their relationshipGet the Book or First Chapters: It's Not Your FaultGet the FREE Guide: 5 Tips to Navigate the Holidays in a Broken FamilyShownotes

If there were 10 things you can do to make therapy succeed (or fail), would you want to know them? I know I would. In this episode, a therapist joins us to share those tips, plus: The goal of therapy and the temptation to idealize healingA tool for dealing with troubling thoughtsThe struggle to put words to your own emotions and experiences of brokennessIf you've ever been to therapy and it hasn't gone well or you're considering therapy but you're unsure how to make it successful, this episode is for you.Schedule a Free Consult at St. Raphael CounselingFind a Restored CoachHow Restored Has Helped You?Shownotes

If you're from a broken family, the holidays often bring more stress and challenges than joy. After my parents separated, I faced these challenges:A sad, pit-in-the-stomach reminder of my parents' split and my family's brokennessPressure to choose between parents and balance time amid many eventsA misled desire to make everyone happy, especially my parents, often at my expenseMy emotions or other people being in control instead of meFeeling alone and uncertain of how to deal with it allIf that sounds familiar, this episode is for you. In it, you'll get 5 tips to navigate the challenges and hopefully, even begin enjoying the holidays again. Using them won't make your holidays look like a Hallmark movie, but they will improve the experience by putting you in the driver's seat.Get the FREE Guide: 5 Tips to Navigate the Holidays in a Broken FamilyShownotes

If you're from a broken family and you've struggled with OCD, relationships, overthinking, and filling a parent role for your siblings or parents, this episode is for you.In it, Ashton shares how her parents' divorce has affected her and her relationships. She also talks about what's helped her heal and even offers some advice for you. Take the podcast surveyShownotes

When trauma occurs, it causes you to ask big questions. That's where my guest found himself after being brutally attacked, almost to the point of death, by people he was trying to help. In this episode, you'll hear the story of the attack, plus he answers:Has forgiveness been difficult for you?Why forgive? What are the benefits? What happens if we don't forgive?How do you forgive someone who has hurt you?Take the podcast surveyShownotes

When you're struggling with unwanted sexual behavior, asking for help is terrifying. The struggle feels so shameful and admitting your weakness feels humiliating. As a result, most men stay stuck for years and years. Thankfully, there's a way out. Asking for help from the right people is the key to overcoming shame, humiliation, and unwanted behavior. Today, a coach specializing in helping men break free from unwanted sexual behavior joins the show to discuss: Is freedom even possible? Why do men deserve that freedom?A valuable for you or men you know strugglingStories of transformation in the lives of the men he's coachedAdvice and encouragement for any man struggling right nowApply for Freedom CoachingGet FREE Mini-Course: Why You Feel BrokenShownotes

If you're a woman that struggles with unwanted sexual behavior, you are not alone. The myth of porn, or even lust, being a male problem is just that - a myth. More importantly, healing and freedom are within reach for you. In this episode, brave author and speaker Rachael Killackey shares her struggles with unwanted sexual behavior and a valuable resource for women struggling, plus:The emotions that sexual struggles brought into her lifeHow she found freedom and helps other women now, tooHow you should respond if you have a relapseBuy Rachael's Book: Love in Recovery: One Woman's Story of Breaking Free from Shame and Healing from Pornography AddictionJoin a Magdala groupListen to the Magdala PodcastGet FREE Mini-Course: Why You Feel BrokenShownotes

Our world is very sexually broken. The examples are endless: Pornography use, sexual compulsions, addictions, hookup culture, paying for sex, infidelity, sex trafficking, and much more.But how did our world become so sexually broken? That's the topic we tackle today with famous author and speaker Christopher West. If you've wrestled with sexual brokenness or noticed an ache inside that you that nothing seems to fill, this episode is for you.Image 1: Three ChoicesImage 2: Wall Unity CrucifixBuy Christopher West's BooksListen to the Ask Christopher West podcastGet FREE Mini-Course: Why You Feel BrokenShownotes

What happens inside your brain and your body when you endure trauma?Surprisingly, there's actually a predictable way that your body and mind responds to trauma. In this episode, we break down each response with a trauma therapist. We also discuss:How her parents' divorce impacted herIs healing trauma even possible? If so, what does it take to heal?How to apologize the right wayShare your storyFind a therapistShownotes

What if I told you that your sexual struggles could be predicted by your untreated trauma?Today, we're joined by author Jay Stringer who studied ~4,000 men and women who struggle with sexual compulsion or addiction, such porn, masturbation, affairs, buying sex, and much more. In this episode, we breakdown his NEW study and more:How the sexual fantasies and porn searches of the study participants could be predicted by their untreated traumaWhy we often repeat behavior that harmed us, such as sexual abuse or affairs, and how to avoid thatHow anger actually drives unwanted sexual behaviorWhy people from rigid or disengaged families are much more likely to struggle with sexual compulsion or addictionHow in order to break free, you have to listen to your lust and understand why you struggle in the particular ways that you doWhy typical lust management strategies like accountability software are not enoughWhether you struggle with sexual brokenness or know someone who does, this episode will help anyone find healing and lasting freedom from sexual brokenness.Buy Jay's Book: Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals Our Way to HealingGet FREE Unwanted ChaptersGet FREE Mini-Course: Why You Feel BrokenShownotes

When it comes to pornography, there are basically two types of people:Those who believe that porn is wrong and harmful. And those who do not.But beyond the arguments, millions of people struggle with a pornography compulsion or addiction. They want to break free, but they feel stuck and hopeless. No matter what they try, it doesn't work.In this episode, popular speakers and authors Matt Fradd and Jason Evert join me to answer these tough questions: Is porn harmful and wrong? If so, why? What does it do your brain and your relationships?How do you actually break free from porn?What resources are out there to help you or someone you care about?Buy the Book: Forged: 33 Days Toward Freedom by Jason Evert and Matt FraddBuy the Book: The Porn Myth: Exposing the Reality Behind the Fantasy of Pornography by Matt FraddGet the FREE Mini-Course: Why You Feel BrokenShownotes

What's brought the most pain and problems into your life? If your answer (or a top answer) is your parents' divorce or the breakdown of your family, this podcast is for you.In this episode, we talk about the specific pain and problems your parents' divorce or family breakdown bring into your life. We also highlight resources to help you heal and build virtue, so you can feel whole again and break the cycle of dysfunction and divorce in your own life.Take podcast survey (5-10 min)View Restored resources via shownotesSchedule donor pitch with Joey

Millions of people right now are struggling with sexual compulsion and addiction. It's a massive problem that doesn't get the attention or resources it deserves.Thankfully, in this episode, psychologist Dr. Bob Schuchts offers steps and a resource to heal your sexual brokenness. We also discuss:A story of profound healing and transformationDr. Bob's own past struggles in this areaHow sexual brokenness is often passed down in families through generationsBuy Dr. Bob's Book: Be RestoredGet the FREE Mini-Course: Why You Feel BrokenShownotes