From Crisis to Connection - with Geoff & Jody Steurer

What happens when you’re motivated, driven, and actively working on personal growth—but your partner isn’t? In this episode, we explore the challenges of navigating a relationship when one partner struggles with motivation —whether due to personal crises, depression, or long-standing patterns of complacency. We discuss why this imbalance happens, how gender differences may play a role, and what yo...

In this episode, we explore the intersection of faith, mental health, and agency —how our ability to choose extends beyond simple decisions and impacts how we respond to betrayal, anxiety, depression, and life’s unexpected challenges. Our guest, Brianna Holmes , is a therapist specializing in relationship issues, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and postpartum disorders. She also writes for Public Square Magaz...

In today’s episode, we’re talking about something so many people ask— What if I’m bad at connection? What if I don’t know how to connect? If you’ve ever felt disconnected or unsure how to build meaningful relationships, you’re not alone. We’ll walk through the developmental roots of connection, how it’s learned, and what you can do if it wasn’t modeled for you growing up. We’ll also explore what r...

One of the most common questions I hear from couples navigating betrayal recovery is, “Is it even possible for us to heal?” If you’ve ever wondered the same thing, you’re not alone. In today’s episode, I’m sharing the five key things I’ve seen every couple do when they successfully heal from betrayal. I’ll also help you reimagine what healing actually looks like—not just surviving, but creating a...

I was honored to be a guest on KayLee Dunn's "Navigating Betrayal" Podcast discussing: "Timing is Everything: When to Begin Rebuilding as a Couple After Betrayal". Are you wondering when the right time is to begin rebuilding your relationship after betrayal? Join us as we dive into this critical question. * Key times it's time to start rebuilding as a couple * How to navigate the healing proc...

If you’ve ever caught yourself checking your partner’s phone, feeling anxious when they’re late, or wondering if you’ll ever trust again, you’re not alone. In today’s episode, I’m diving into the four hidden fears that keep so many people stuck after betrayal—and, more importantly, how you can move past them. These fears aren’t signs of weakness. They’re normal responses to an abnormal situation....

In this solo episode, I’m diving into three hidden barriers that can keep you stuck in the healing process after betrayal. Whether you’re the betrayed partner or the one working to rebuild trust, these common fears and beliefs can make it hard to move forward. I’ll walk you through why these barriers exist and share practical ways to navigate them so you can keep progressing in your healing journe...

In this episode, I address one of the most common questions couples ask when healing from betrayal: “How long does it take?” I discuss the factors that influence the timeline for recovery and highlights the challenges couples face along the way. I also explain the importance of creating emotional safety, overcoming fears of relapse, and synchronizing individual and couple healing journeys. I'm als...

In this episode, I discuss the common mistakes couples make during betrayal recovery and provide guidance on how to move forward with intention and clarity.  I also share the inspiration behind my work and introduce you to my upcoming program, Courageous Together , designed to give couples a trauma-informed roadmap to rebuild trust and connection. Stay tuned for more information about this gr...

The idea of “consent” can be difficult to teach to children, but in this episode our guest has been able to effectively describe body autonomy and help parents and children recognize the importance of personal agency and consent even at a very young age. We welcome Rachel Brian, author and animator, to discuss her children's book on consent, which teaches kids how to set boundaries and be helpful...

In this episode we continue our conversation about great listeners in our lives. Join us as we discuss how feeling truly seen by someone makes it easier to truly see others. These personal stories we share highlight the importance of genuine curiosity, engagement, and presence without seeking personal benefit in conversations.  The Power of Community in Pornography Recovery : Download Relay a...

In this episode we welcome Sam from Sam's Healing Podcast to discuss the complexities unfaithful partners face during recovery. Sam shares his personal story of infidelity, the transforming experience of owning one's actions, and the importance of creating safety and accountability in relationships. Join us as we delve into the healing process, the significance of internal self-reference, empathy,...

In this podcast episode, we dive into a discussion about the importance of good listening, particularly in the context of personal relationships and healing. Join us as we discuss how undivided attention, patience, and follow-up questions create a sense of being truly seen and understood. Although sometimes challenging, slowing down and investing in genuine communication and deep listening ultimat...

‘Being yourself’ goes beyond what you do, or what you like to do. It really expands into how you move through life. In this episode we focus on the idea of exploring this complexity beyond surface-level actions and roles. We examine how American culture's emphasis on group belonging and hyper-individualism affects personal development and authenticity. Join us as we highlight the importance of sel...

So many family members sit on the sidelines worried about the health and welfare of their addicted loved ones, struggling to know what to do to help. In this episode we’ve invited Dr. Carrie Wilkins to discuss evidence-based practices for supporting loved ones struggling with addictive behaviors. As Co-President and CEO of CMC: Foundation for Change, Dr. Wilkens highlights the 'Invitation to Chang...

A common reaction after an argument is the need for space to cool down and collect one’s thoughts. But when the silent treatment is continually given to intentionally shut someone out or hurt them, it becomes stonewalling, a concept identified by John Gottman. Join us as we discuss the dynamics of stonewalling, especially in the context of betrayal trauma and recovery, and the importance of addres...

We typically address betrayal and recovery from the perspective of the betrayer and their partner. But in a family dynamic, there are often children involved that feel the weight of the betrayal as well. Children are keenly aware of feelings and emotions and are heavily impacted by those even when they don’t understand exactly what’s happening or the reasons behind them. In this episode we welcome...

In this solo episode I’d like to take a look back at the last twenty-five years as a therapist specializing in problematic sexual behaviors and betrayal trauma. I began my career before the Internet and smartphones were a staple for most adults and teenagers. And, while those inventions are not where problematic behaviors begin, the ease of access of sexually explicit material accelerated a need f...

In this episode we explore the journey from identifying as a victim to achieving personal empowerment, particularly in the context of recovering from broken trust and betrayal. The initial protective nature of victimhood can be useful, but has potential to lead to entitlement if prolonged. Join us as we discuss moving beyond victimization by establishing healthy boundaries, embracing personal owne...

Have you ever considered that being brutally honest could be more of a reactive emotion rather than being an authentic communication skill? In this episode we welcome Dr. Jason B. Whiting to discuss the challenges of honesty in our most intimate relationships. From seemingly harmless avoidances of the “full truth”, to outright lies and deception, he shares insights on the balance between transpare...

Partnership is the foundation of healthy intimacy and connection. In this episode we discuss the necessity of developing a protective partnership that fosters mutual understanding, safety, and commitment beyond monogamy. While it is common for men and women to enter a marriage with different life experiences and expectations around partnership, it is important to ask deeper questions to understand...

In this episode we welcome Dr. Heidi Hastings, a marriage and sex researcher, to discuss her research on the impact of betrayal on a partner's identity. Dr. Hastings outlines the five stages of betrayal and self-development, which include innocence, crisis, aftermath, healing, and transformation. Through her research involving diverse women, Dr. Hastings found that betrayal deeply affects multiple...

In this episode we continue our conversation on self advocacy, focusing on rebuilding trust after betrayal. Considering that a safe person is someone who can be confronted, we explore the important roles of external advocacy, such as interventions, therapists, or community support, in situations where self-advocacy is not effective. While finding external advocates may be necessary, it is importan...

In this episode we welcome our guest, Jeni Brockbank, to discuss her book 'Healing in Christ's Light,' which merges principles of therapy with Christian faith to help readers navigate their recovery journey. Join us as we cover the importance of boundaries, self-discovery, and the integration of faith in the healing process. Jenny emphasizes that her approach is trauma-sensitive and advocates for...

Betrayal trauma can leave the betrayed partner feeling isolated with mountains of self-doubt. Learning to find your voice and advocate for your needs is critical for healing. In this episode we discuss the importance of using your voice to express your needs, especially if the betraying partner is not actively working on their recovery. Oftentimes it can be helpful to have an external advocate suc...