Pure Desire Podcast

If you've ever been taught that your body is the problem, or looked in the mirror with shame and wondered how you could ever be free from porn, this conversation is for you.
Nick Stumbo and Mike Maxwell talk with Dr. Christopher West, author, speaker, and co-founder of the Theology of the Body Institute, who has spent more than 30 years teaching what Scripture says about our bodies and our sexuality. Dr. West grew up hearing that desire is something to repress, then swung toward what the culture promises. He explains why neither one satisfies, and what the Bible offers instead.
Along the way, you'll hear why Christianity does not treat the body as a prison, the difference between our sinful nature and the body God made, why shame about our bodies can quietly fuel porn use, and why porn addiction recovery is not won by white knuckling and trying harder.
Dr. West speaks plainly about the body and sexuality, and the conversation moves quickly, so give yourself room to listen twice. You do not need to be Catholic to benefit from it. If you're in your first year of recovery, hold on to the heart of it: freedom is real, and it begins when we bring our weakness into the light of Jesus' mercy.
If you're ready for support, find a Pure Desire group at https://puredesire.org/groups or talk with a clinician at puredesire.org/counseling.
You are not alone.
Resources:
Theology of the Body Youtube
Theology of the Body Website

Theology of the Body Podcast

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In this episode we sit down for a conversation with Archbishop Joseph Naumann. Together, we explore the cultural roots of pornography addiction, its impact on youth and marriages, and why the church must break its silence to offer real healing.
Resources:
Religious Alliance

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Can the Bible be used in ways that actually cause harm?
In this episode, Neil Schori and Tabitha Westbrook join us to unpack some of the most commonly misused passages about sex, marriage, submission, forgiveness, and abuse. We talk about what these verses mean in context, how Scripture can be weaponized in unhealthy relationships, and how to recognize coercion, establish healthy boundaries, and pursue healing.
If you’ve ever wrestled with where biblical submission ends and control begins, whether forgiveness means reconciliation, or how Christians should respond to abuse, this conversation offers a thoughtful path forward.
Resources:
Called To Peace
The Journey & The Process
Tabitha's Personal Website

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Summit 2026!: Register Now
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Many couples desire deeper intimacy but struggle with shame, silence, or confusion around sexuality. When faith and sexuality become disconnected, it can impact connection with God, ourselves, and our spouse.
In this episode, Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner explore how couples can reconnect spirituality and sexuality in a healthy, life-giving way. We discuss honest conversations about intimacy, healing after addiction and betrayal, and overcoming barriers that keep couples from experiencing connection. This conversation offers hope, wisdom, and practical encouragement for building a marriage marked by trust, healing, and deeper intimacy.
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Cliff & Joyce's website
All of their books

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Summit 2026!: Register Now
Free eBook: 7 Keys To Understanding Betrayal Trauma
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Many couples long for deeper intimacy but struggle to talk openly about sex, desire, and connection. Avoided conversations can create distance, misunderstanding, and loneliness, even in marriages built on love and faith.
In this episode, Jeff and Shaunti Feldhahn share insights from The Marriage Intimacy Project and explore what research reveals about sexual health in marriage. We discuss desire differences, honest communication, and why intimacy requires both biblical wisdom and practical understanding. This conversation offers hope and tools for building trust, reconnecting, and moving toward greater intimacy with grace and compassion.
Jeff & Shaunti's Website
Check Out The Intimacy Marriage Project

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Summit 2026!: Register Now
Free eBook: 7 Keys To Understanding Betrayal Trauma
Free eBook: 5 Steps to Freedom From Porn
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