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.comRecommendations:www.joinrelay.appwww.sherecovery.orgwww.puredesireministries.orgwww.fightthenewdrug.comwww.sa.orgBooks:"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 Fields01:34 Exploring Sexual and Love Addiction02:57 Rika's Journey to Therapy11:12 Understanding Love Addiction13:54 Bringing Conversations to the Church16:46 Creating Safe Spaces for Women19:32 The Role of Accountability in Recovery23:21 Engaging in Conversations about Sexual Addiction28:09 Statistics on Sexual Addiction31:17 The Damaging Effects of Pornography34:11 The Importance of Connection in Recovery39:37 Words of Hope for Ministry Leaders