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Sam's Healing Podcast

Sam's Healing Podcast

68 episodes — Page 1 of 2

EP 69: Interview with Melissa Elguera: Helping the Betrayed Find Stability & Empowerment After Infidelity

May 9, 202643 min

EP 68: How Men Can Handle the Emotion of the Betrayed with Coach Kevin Benavides

May 1, 202639 min

EP 67: Guest Michael Webb: When the Betrayed Feels Like They Have to Parent the Unfaithful

Apr 17, 202645 min

S1 Ep 66EP 66: Why Our OWN Healing is So Important After Infidelity

What if your own healing after infidelity wasn't just about "getting over it," but about becoming medicine—for you, for your kids, and for a world full of hurting people? In today's episode, I talk about why your own healing matters, no matter what happens to your marriage. Infidelity can shatter your nervous system, your faith, your sense of self. But it can also become the soil where something deeply rooted and beautiful begins to grow—not because the betrayal was good, but because of what you choose to do with your pain. I explore how faith moves forward in the aftermath of betrayal—not in a neat, tidy way, but in a limping, honest, "I'm still here" kind of way. Healing is not pretending everything's fine or rushing to reconciliation at any cost. It's allowing safe people to meet you in the wreckage, one honest step at a time, whether your spouse or partner does their work or not. We walk through why your healing cannot be contingent on your marriage surviving. You absolutely need to heal: For your own mental and emotional health For your children, so they don't carry the unprocessed shrapnel of this into their own relationships For your extended family, friendships, and future connection—romantic or otherwise I talk about post‑traumatic growth—the idea that while betrayal is devastating, it can, over time, deepen your wisdom, your empathy, your boundaries, and your capacity to love in healthy ways. The healing work you do now becomes your medicine to the world: the way you sit with a friend who's just discovered an affair, the way you raise your kids, the way you show up for the next broken‑hearted person who thinks they're alone. In the episode, I name this paradox we never forget: We will never forget the people who walked into our darkness with a lamp—the therapist, the coach the friend, the mentor, the stranger online who said, "You're not crazy, and you're not alone." And we will never forget the people who left us in the dark—the ones who minimized, disappeared, or refused to throw a lifeline when we were drowning. Both memories mark us, but we get to decide which one we become for somebody else. I'll invite you to consider: Who might one day need the version of you that has done this work? The version who can say, "I wouldn't wish this on anyone, but I know the way out of some of these woods." If you're in the thick of betrayal right now—whether your spouse is doing the work or not—this episode is a reminder: your healing is not optional "bonus work." It's sacred work. It's how you reclaim your mind, your body, your story, and your future. And it's how your story, over time, can become a quiet lamp for someone else still sitting in the dark. To Healing, Sam https://www.samshealingpodcast.com/

Mar 26, 202616 min

S1 Ep 65EP 65: Interview with a Betrayed Male Spouse: Healing from Narcissistic Abuse and Doing the Work

Today you'll meet Bill. It's a rare and powerful look into what it means for a man to walk through hell and choose healing, truth, and self-respect on the other side of infidelity and abuse. As a betrayed male spouse who also grew up under relentless narcissistic abuse, Bill didn't just survive infidelity and emotional devastation—he confronted it head-on and rebuilt every part of his life from the ground up. The pain and confusion he carried started long before betrayal, in a childhood marked by gaslighting, control, and chronic invalidation that left him feeling defective, disposable, and utterly alone. At a painfully young age, the abuse and hopelessness ran so deep that he even considered ending his own life, convinced there was no escape and no version of himself that could ever be enough. What makes Bill's story so compelling is that he refuses to sugarcoat anything. He's direct, no-nonsense, and cuts through the clichés about "just getting over it," naming the rage, shame, and suicidal thoughts many male survivors quietly carry but rarely speak aloud. Instead of staying stuck in that darkness, Bill chose a different path. He did the deep therapeutic work, faced his trauma history, and began the slow, courageous process of reclaiming his voice, his boundaries, and his sense of worth. He stopped abandoning himself to keep the peace, learned to listen to his own body and intuition, and started building a life that was no longer organized around managing other people's egos and emotions. Today, Bill is not the man he once was. His life has taken a completely new turn—not just externally, but internally, where it matters most. He doesn't just enjoy life; he actually enjoys himself. He can sit in his own company without shame, look in the mirror, and see a man he respects, trusts, and genuinely loves. He talks about rediscovering joy, purpose, and simple pleasures that used to be buried under survival mode, and how his relationships changed as he began to show up grounded, clear, and unwilling to tolerate abuse in any form. This episode is for the warriors—the men and women who have been betrayed, minimized, or driven to the edge, yet still feel a quiet fight inside them that refuses to die. Bill stands as living proof that you can come from profound narcissistic abuse, walk through the devastation of infidelity and even suicidal despair, and still choose a life marked by dignity, strength, and peace. If you're tired of carrying shame that never belonged to you and ready to stop rescuing everyone else while abandoning yourself, Bill's story will call you higher. His message is clear: you are not powerless, you are not crazy, and you are not alone. There is a path to healing where you don't just get your life back—you finally get yourself back, and you learn to love and respect that man without apology. To Healing, Sam [email protected] @samuel_healing

Feb 11, 202633 min

S1 Ep 64EP 64: Adam Nisenson Discusses The Elephant in the Room for Betrayed Men and Women

Infidelity is often the "elephant in the room" of a relationship—everyone feels its weight, but few know how to name it, let alone heal from it. In this episode of Sam's Healing Podcast, Sam sits down with Adam Nisenson for a raw, compassionate conversation about what betrayal really does to us and how we can move from silent survival into honest, lasting recovery. Sam and Adam explore the devastation of infidelity for both the betrayed and the unfaithful: trust shattered, identity shaken, and an entire shared story suddenly called into question. Instead of dealing with that pain, many of us do what we were trained to do—stuff things down, "endure hard things," and keep moving. The hurt gets stored instead of processed: sleepless nights, intrusive thoughts, anger that comes out sideways, and bodies that carry what mouths won't say. They talk about the deep ego wounds—"Am I unlovable? Am I broken? Am I the villain?"—and how those wounds feed massive shame and confusion on both sides. Men in particular often feel enormous shame for wanting and needing help, so they don't talk, don't ask questions, and don't admit how lost they are. That silence becomes its own kind of betrayal: of self, of partner, and of any chance at true healing. A central theme of the episode is learning to acknowledge the injuries of infidelity instead of minimizing them. Sam and Adam name what has actually been harmed—safety, attachment, self‑worth, spiritual and sexual integrity—and why pretending "it wasn't that bad" keeps everyone stuck. From there, they move into what it means to bring that pain into vulnerable, safe spaces: trusted community, skilled helpers, and conversations where both partners can feel and speak without being annihilated. This isn't just an autopsy of what went wrong; it's a roadmap toward ultimate growth. Sam and Adam describe how, when we stop storing and start processing—when we stop white‑knuckling and start telling the truth—infidelity can become the catalyst for a deeper honesty, humility, and courage than either person has ever known. If you've been stuffing things down, staying quiet, or secretly wondering if you're beyond repair, this episode invites you to stop carrying the elephant alone and begin the kind of vulnerable work that actually transforms you. To Healing, Sam [email protected] @samuel_healing

Jan 29, 202633 min

S1 Ep 63EP 63: Healing is Feeling: Learning How to Feel Again After Infidelity

Feeling anything after infidelity can feel impossible. As the unfaithful, you may believe you don't deserve feelings—or that if you let yourself feel, you'll drown in shame, grief, fear and more compounding failure. As the betrayed, your world has exploded into rage, panic, hypervigilance, and a kind of pain that feels like it will never stop. In today's episode, I'll do my best to slow all of that down and make room for both stories—without excusing harm and without minimizing anyone's trauma. I'll begin by naming a hard truth many unfaithful partners never say out loud: most of them have no idea what to do with their emotions after disclosure. They often believe they've lost the right to feel sad, scared, or confused because "I caused this." So they shut down. Go numb, intellectualize, perform apologies, or rush into doing tasks and checklists—anything but actually feel the weight of what they've done and what's been lost. I'll also unpack how this shutdown is rarely new; it's usually a survival strategy learned in childhood in homes where big feelings weren't safe, welcomed, or understood. At the same time, the betrayed partner is often living in a body that feels hijacked by massive, relentless emotion. I'll discuss the difference between ordinary hurt and the PTSD/CPTSD many betrayed partners face: flashbacks, intrusive images, startle responses, spiraling thoughts, and a nervous system that never truly rests. Their feelings are valid and necessary—but without boundaries, that raw rage and pain can become a second layer of trauma in the relationship. I'll also walk you through why honoring the betrayed partner's experience is essential and why creating limits around verbal explosions, threats, or self‑destruction is part of genuine care, not selfishness. A key theme of the episode is this: your spouse, no matter how remorseful or supportive, cannot do enough work to heal you. Their repair efforts are important—they matter deeply—but they will never substitute for your own internal work. I'll help both parties: to the betrayed who long for true transformation, transparency and changed behavior to finally feel okay again; and to the unfaithful who secretly hope that if they just do "all the right things," they can avoid facing their own story, their own childhood wounds, and their own capacity for harm. I'll also unpack a powerful and necessary reframe: no one is coming to save you except the healed version of you. That doesn't mean white‑knuckling alone or rejecting help; it means recognizing that no coach, therapist, pastor, podcast, or partner can feel your feelings for you. Healing requires massive personal courage: learning to sit with grief instead of outrunning it, to name shame instead of hiding behind defensiveness, and to allow anger and fear to move through the body instead of freezing into numbness or exploding onto everyone around you. "Healing is feeling" isn't just a catchy phrase—it's an invitation: to stop outsourcing your healing, to stop waiting for someone else to fix what's broken, and to start becoming the version of you who can hold the full truth of what happened and move toward a different future. There is hope. To Healing, Sam

Jan 15, 202613 min

S1 Ep 62EP 62: How to Guarantee Personal Transformation In Healing from Infidelity

If there's one question almost everyone asks after infidelity or betrayal it's this: "Can I or we ever really heal from this devastation?" In todays episode, I share the one real guarantee that exists in recovery—not a gimmick or quick fix, but a way of showing up to your own healing that works whether you were betrayed or you were the one who did the betraying. This is the same approach that helped me rebuild my own life after my own worst failures and has supported countless clients walking through the wreckage of affairs and deception. You can't control what your partner chooses to do next—but you do have a say in how you respond to the devastation, even if it's devastation you helped create. In today's honest and direct conversation, I gently walk you through a practical, hope‑filled path you can start following today, no matter where your relationship stands. To Healing, Sam [email protected] @samuel_healing To Book a Session with me please click here: https://linktr.ee/affair.recovery?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Jan 7, 202612 min

S1 Ep 61EP 61 Guest Judith Nisenson Discusses Why Women Also Cheat the Shame of the Unfaithful Female

Today you'll meet Judith Nisenson, a certified coach and expert in dealing with unfaithful women. She's also Adam Nisenson's wife whom many of you will also know as The Betrayal Shrink who has appeared on the podcast multiple times. Judith Nisenson is the founder of Women'sWRK, a Certified Life Coach (ICF-ACC) and Betrayal Trauma Coach (APSATS-CPC) specializing in helping women who have betrayed their partners. Her work focuses on guiding women to face the truth of their actions, dismantle denial and rationalizations, and step into authentic accountability and transformation. Judith's compassionate but direct approach is reshaping the conversation around infidelity. By supporting women betrayers through the difficult process of accountability and repair, she is helping to bring balance, truth, and healing to a space that has long been overlooked. Women betrayers remain one of the most underserved populations in betrayal recovery. Cultural narratives often frame infidelity as something men do, leaving women who cheat without support, resources, or a clear path to healing. Judith's work is groundbreaking in that it creates space for women to take ownership of the harm they've caused while also understanding the deeper wounds, unmet needs, and impaired thinking that contributed to their choices. To Healing, Sam

Dec 4, 202526 min

S1 Ep 60EP 60 Dr. Jake Porter "How Can the Betrayed Ever Make Sense Out of Their Partner's Infidelity?"

How can someone betrayed by infidelity and/or addiction ever begin to make sense of the experience? When your world is turned upside down by something as devastating and disorienting as betrayal, it's natural to wonder: How do I even process this loss? Where do I turn for answers? How do I make sense of something so nonsensical? In this episode, Dr. Jake Porter—renowned counselor, trauma specialist, educator, and creator of the Couple–Centered Recovery® model—offers practical wisdom and clear, trauma-informed guidance for those seeking to understand both the betrayed and the unfaithful. Dr. Porter explores the mindset and decision-making behind infidelity and addiction, breaking down the mechanics of grief and the emotional aftermath for everyone involved. What you'll gain from this conversation: *Expert insight into the psychology of the unfaithful partner *Clear, actionable insight for betrayed spouses navigating the shock and turmoil *A deeper understanding of grief, trauma, and the path forward after relational betrayal Dr. Porter's compassionate approach, clinical expertise, and innovative model have helped countless couples heal and rebuild after infidelity. If you're searching for clarity, validation, and hope, this episode will guide you through understanding the seemingly inexplicable—and illuminate your journey toward healing. It's not as impossible as it may seem..... To Healing, Sam [email protected]

Nov 20, 202533 min

S1 Ep 59EP 59 with Sharon Rinearson: "I Don't Think I Could Have Been More Disrespected by my Husband..."

How does the betrayed understand the heinous choices of the unfaithful? "If my unfaithful truly cared about me, how could they make the choices they have made to be unfaithful and go outside the marriage?" How does the betrayed work through the understanding of why the unfaithful had such a flurry of activity for their affair partners, but NOT for the betrayed spouse themselves? How could they and how DID they work so hard for the affair partners but yet so little on the marriage and for their spouses? Sharon Rinearson—an expert therapist with 30+ years of experience treating infidelity and addiction, co-founder of Hope for Us, host of "Ask the Betrayed," and wife of one of my closest friends and colleagues James Annear—offers pointed insight and true hope for these painful questions. Sharon shares both her clinical wisdom and real-world perspective on how the actions of the unfaithful impact betrayed spouses, helping both betrayed and unfaithful understand the underlying patterns and behaviors that drive infidelity. What you'll find in today's honest conversation: *Thoughtful guidance for making sense of your partner's choices *Honest discussion on the emotional impacts of betrayal *Practical and tangible insight on rebuilding self-respect, boundaries, and healing after infidelity You'll love Sharon's compassion for both betrayed and unfaithful spouses—and her straightforward, no-nonsense approach to facing the realities of life after infidelity. To healing, Sam 📧 [email protected] Instagram: @samuel_healing

Nov 12, 202531 min

S1 Ep 58EP 58: "It Was Like a Death to the Life I Had Planned." A Betrayed Guest Shares Her Story

If you're a betrayed partner, you know: infidelity can feel like a death. The death of a marriage. The loss of the life you planned. The shattering of what you thought you were living. For those who haven't faced it, that comparison might sound dramatic—but for survivors, it's reality. The grief and pain after discovering infidelity or addiction can be overwhelming, and "moving on" can feel impossible. Yet, in today's episode, you'll meet Joanie—a client and survivor—who bravely shares her journey for the first time. Joanie's story is raw, honest, and ultimately hopeful: Years ago, her rage and heartbreak were almost unimaginable. Each new disclosure felt like an emotional atom bomb—reshaping her world again and again. But today, Joanie and her husband have stepped out of the ashes and into a season of healing, growth, and new momentum. Can you heal from infidelity? For many couples, yes—you can get your life (and mind!) back. The marriage may not look the same, but many discover a new, rewarding partnership—imperfect, but worth the journey. Let Joanie's story fill you with hope, validation, and encouragement. Watch now and remember: recovery isn't just possible—it can lead to a life richer and more fulfilling than before. To healing, Sam 📧 [email protected] Instagram: @samuel_healing

Nov 5, 202527 min

S1 Ep 57EP 57: Dr. Matthew Hedelius: Is My Spouse a Sex Addict or Just Dealing with Sexual Compulsivity?

Have you ever wondered if you or your partner was truly a sex addict? Perhaps you're wondering if you or your partner are maybe dealing with sexual compulsivity? What in fact is this 'sexual compulsivity?' Today you'll meet Dr. Matthew Hedelius Psy. D., LCSW, CSAT-S who has been a regular guest on the podcast over the years and is the Director of Paradise Creek Recovery Center. Dr. Matthew Hedelius earned a B.S. degree in Family Sciences, a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work and a Doctor of Psychology Degree. He has provided treatment for both men and women who are suffering from trauma and problematic sexual behaviors for over 26 years. He utilizes principles of neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology to help individuals achieve the healing they are capable of. He has specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. To Healing, Sam [email protected]

Oct 30, 202528 min

S1 Ep 56EP 56: Guest Amanda Asproni "My Unfaithful Keeps Wanting me, the Betrayed, to Rescue Them."

Today's episode of Sam's Healing Podcast features a courageous and deeply empathetic interview with Amanda Asproni as we confront the raw realities of infidelity and betrayal trauma. Together, we examine why so many unfaithful partners desperately want those they've betrayed to show up for them—longing for their partner to absorb and manage their shame, rescue them emotionally, and shoulder responsibility for healing, even after breaking trust. Amanda offers clear, compassionate insight into the tangled mix of guilt, regret, and helplessness that often overwhelms individuals who cheat, highlighting their yearning not to be cast as "the villain," but as someone still worthy of grace and second chances. In parallel, the episode speaks to the devastation suffered by betrayed partners—especially those who are also survivors of childhood sexual abuse. With frank honesty, Amanda shares how the pain of abuse and infidelity can "murder the soul," leaving a person gasping for air in a world of devastation, confusion, and total loss of safety. The heartbreak does not end with the exposure of the affair; it ripples through every part of a survivor's life, sometimes reopening ancient wounds and triggering a cascade of trauma responses. This profoundly destructive impact is named, respected, and never minimized in our conversation. The episode also speaks directly to the devastation suffered by betrayed partners, whether or not they are survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Yet, the heart of today's show is hope and practical help for both sides of these complex relationships. For the unfaithful, Amanda outlines the importance of facing shame head-on—not expecting the betrayed partner to fix or soothe what only the unfaithful themselves can resolve. Through self-reflection, accountability, and a commitment to genuine repair, the unfaithful learn that true healing starts only when they stop seeking rescue and start taking ownership for their choices and consequences. For betrayed partners and abuse survivors, today's episode sends a powerful message of validation. You will hear a call to honor your pain, protect your boundaries, and pursue the kind of healing that puts your needs first—whether or not the relationship survives. Amanda and Sam discuss how survivors can reclaim their sense of safety and worth, refusing to be defined by betrayal or tragedy. With a direct but compassionate approach, today's episode stands as a guide for moving honestly through pain, confronting shame together, and beginning the work of lasting recovery—no matter which side of infidelity you're on. To Healing, Sam [email protected]

Oct 1, 202521 min

S1 Ep 56Helping the Unfaithful Move From "Not It!" to "Got it!"

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On today's episode of "Moving from Not It to Got It," Sam takes listeners on an honest journey through the pivotal moment when an unfaithful spouse chooses to stop deflecting and starts owning their actions. The episode opens by breaking down the psychological reality of the "Not It" phase—where self-protection, avoidance, and justification keep an individual stuck, unable to truly connect with their partner or heal the damage from infidelity. The reality is, "Not It" causes a significant amount of collateral damage including but certainly not limited to: blocking all forward progress minimizing and justifying the affair(s) blame shifting subconsciously expecting the betrayed partner to handhold the unfaithful into the most basic recovery work The heart of today's episode centers on what it takes to shift from "Not It" to "Got It" not only earning self respect but simultaneously the respect of the betrayed partner. This means facing the hard truths head-on and making the conscious choice to drop the defenses and problematic patterns which may have created the acting out in the first place. The transformation can be palpable: when an unfaithful spouse authentically claims responsibility, they lay the foundation for rebuilding trust, self-respect, and hope for their relationship. Note: This episode is educational, not therapy. Please reach out for professional guidance at [email protected] to learn more about coaching or intensive options. To Healing, Sam

Sep 25, 20259 min

S1 Ep 55EP 55: Dr. Jill Manning: Infidelity, Betrayal Trauma and and the Use of Alcohol to Escape

In the aftermath of betrayal trauma, many adults turn to alcohol or other substances in search of relief. It might feel like a way to escape, to quiet pain and overwhelm, or simply to get through another day. What's really happening is "numbing out"—using alcohol and drugs to suppress painful emotions, calm anxiety, and insulate from distressing memories. The urge to numb out is understandable, but over time, relying on substances creates new problems and blocks authentic healing. As a clinician, Dr. Jill Manning is seeing a troubling increase in alcohol use among those suffering betrayal trauma. This isn't just a passing trend—it's now a daily topic in her practice, and it's changing the way we approach recovery. Healing requires the brain and body to metabolize and sort through overwhelming emotional information. Alcohol doesn't help; it makes this process harder. Recent health data from WHO, CDC, and SAMHSA show rising rates of problem drinking, especially among women. Alcohol-related deaths and other consequences are climbing, prompting many professionals to use the AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test) as a standard intake screen. This is a clear public health concern. Let's look at betrayal trauma symptoms: -Anxiety and hypervigilance -Troubled sleep -Depression and hopelessness *Irritability and anger -Cognitive fog -Somatic symptoms (GI distress, headaches, fatigue) -Relationship sensitivity and conflict Alcohol intensifies every one of these symptoms. It keeps anxiety stuck by destabilizing neurotransmitters, fragments sleep and reduces restorative REM, worsens depression by lowering serotonin and dopamine, and increases irritability and aggression. Alcohol impairs memory and focus, disrupts hydration and gut health, and makes relational conflict more likely by reducing judgment and emotional control. The very symptoms survivors are trying to escape only get worse with drinking. What does alcohol really do to the brain and body? Imaging research by Dr. Daniel Amen shows alcohol reduces blood flow to key brain areas, leading to atrophy. Alcohol's numbing effect keeps the nervous system dysregulated and locks people into cycles of shame and avoidance—preventing the full processing of trauma and blocking real recovery. The good news: reducing or eliminating alcohol speeds healing and dramatically lowers health risks. Start with honest tracking—use the AUDIT screener—and try a 30-day break to observe changes in sleep, mood, and clarity. Replace drinking with restorative habits—herbal teas, breathwork, grounding rituals. Prioritize sleep hygiene, hydration, and connect with trauma-informed therapy or support groups. Leading voices like Dr. Amen, Dr. Huberman, and global health agencies urge caution: alcohol impedes recovery from trauma. Every step toward cutting back is a powerful investment in your healing journey. Here is the Alcohol Use Disorders Test: https://auditscreen.org/ For further help during the holidays you can also see this link: https://drjillmanning.com/product/navigating-the-holidays-after-betrayal/ To Healing, Sam

Sep 24, 202535 min

S1 Ep 54EP 54: Guest Amanda Asproni Discusses: What Does Weaponizing Therapy or Coaching Look Like?

When infidelity or addiction has shaken a relationship, couples often turn to coaching or therapy for healing. These tools are designed to help people rebuild trust, understand pain, and create healthier patterns. At their best, they provide safety, empathy, and clarity. But when the language and frameworks of therapy or coaching are misused, they can become weapons. Instead of supporting healing, they deepen wounds, reinforce blame, and prevent genuine repair. After cheating or addiction, emotions are raw. One partner may grasp at therapy concepts to regain control or avoid accountability. Common misuses include: Pathologizing: Labeling the hurt partner as "codependent" or "trauma-bonded" instead of acknowledging their pain. Playing therapist: Acting like the "expert" in recovery rather than an equal participant. Gaslighting with therapy-speak: Saying, "This is just your trauma—it's not about me," to minimize betrayal. Misusing boundaries: Declaring boundaries as a way to dodge hard conversations, e.g., "I won't discuss the affair again—it's crossing my boundary." Exploiting disclosures: Using what a spouse revealed in therapy (such as past wounds) as ammunition during conflict. These tactics shift focus away from accountability and silence the betrayed partner's voice, halting healing before it can even begin. Infidelity and addiction often leave the offending partner flooded with guilt and shame, and the hurt partner overwhelmed by anger and grief. In this fragile space, weaponizing therapy language can become a defense mechanism. The unfaithful spouse may use it to deflect responsibility. The betrayed spouse may use it to label and control. Both can misuse "healing" jargon as armor against vulnerability. When therapy language is weaponized in recovery: Trust erodes further—the betrayed partner may feel manipulated or dismissed instead of heard. Shame deepens—labels like "damaged goods" or "triggered" or "once a cheater always a cheater" can compound existing pain and keep couples stuck. Repair stalls—genuine accountability and empathy get replaced by analysis and argument. Emotional safety collapses—the relationship becomes a battleground of diagnoses rather than a place for healing. What couples need most after betrayal is compassion and honesty, not one-sided, weaponized expertise. Therapy and coaching can be transformative in recovering from cheating or addiction—but only when used with humility. Healthier approaches include: Speaking from feelings: "I feel hurt and unsafe," rather than diagnosing a partner's reactions. Taking responsibility: The betraying partner owning their actions without hiding behind jargon. Seeking mutual support: Using therapy to create shared language, not to score points. Protecting vulnerability: Ensuring that disclosures in therapy remain safe, never weaponized. In this context, therapeutic tools become bridges to understanding instead of barriers. Couples healing from infidelity or addiction can protect their recovery by: Agreeing that therapy insights are for healing, not for argument. Practicing humility—both partners are learners, not experts, in the process. Honoring disclosures—treating shared vulnerabilities as sacred. Focusing on accountability and empathy over diagnosis or control. Working with a neutral guide—a therapist or coach who holds space fairly for both sides. Infidelity and addiction test relationships at their core. Coaching and therapy can provide the tools to rebuild, but only if used with care. When weaponized, they become tools of avoidance and control, keeping wounds open. When applied with honesty, humility, and empathy, they foster the safety needed for real healing. True recovery comes not from labeling or diagnosing, but from the hard work of accountability, compassion, and rebuilding trust—together. To Healing..... Sam [email protected] ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and interg

Sep 3, 202519 min

S1 Ep 53EP 53: How Could You? An Unfaithful Shares How He Allowed Himself to Cheat

Why does the unfaithful cheat or act out? What allows them to go against their moral compass and engage in an extramarital affair? How do they justify it to themselves? The truth may challenge what you've come to believe about some unfaithful partners. For some it's anger and getting their needs met. For others it can even be subconscious retaliation for the perceived rejection by their partner or spouse. For others it's an exit affair. Today you'll hear from Ryan who shares his own individual story of why he acted out and what was going on inside his mind. It's hard hitting but it's insightful for those who have always wondered just how the unfaithful justifies their affair both to themselves and everyone else around them. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Aug 27, 202529 min

S1 Ep 52EP 52: "I Was About to Lose Everything I Valued...." Interview with Ryan a Former Unfaithful

Have you ever wondered what goes through the mind of an unfaithful when they are about to lose everything? Have you considered that maybe, just maybe there are those who sober up, realize what they are about to lose and actually do recovery work? Today you'll hear from Ryan again, a former unfaithful who shares more of his compelling journey to healing as an unfaithful spouse who finally GOT IT. He's no rock star. He's no superman or super human. He's simply one of so many who have chosen to do the work and do whatever it takes to save his family. Maybe he is special? Maybe he chose to bottom out, hit rock bottom and listen to the many voices of healing, confrontation and sobriety that were placed in his life? Today you'll hear more about how he was on the verge of losing all that he cherished and all that he held dear.... I don't know where you're at or what you're facing as an unfaithful or betrayed. What I do know is that there is hope for YOU and your own recovery and I hope you'll listen to another courageous soul who chose to do the work. To Courage and to Healing.... Sam ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Jul 29, 202524 min

S1 Ep 51EP 51: Interview with Adam Nisenson "Well...you did that for them...why won't you do it for me?"

What does the betrayed do when they feel as though the unfaithful just won't do the work? Yet, the unfaithful, seemingly showed all sorts of effort to pursue their affair partner? What choices does the betrayed male have in understanding the heart and mind of the unfaithful woman? Are there parallels between the unfaithful male and unfaithful female? Today you'll hear from returning guest Adam Nisenson, AKA The Betrayal Shrink, as he answers these tough questions and more. Adam combines his extensive clinical skills with a deeply empathetic heart in his role as a Betrayal Trauma Coach. Licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Adam is dedicated to guiding men through the complex emotions and challenges of betrayal trauma. His methodology is deeply influenced by his intimate grasp of the trials faced by men confronting a partner's infidelity. Leveraging his extensive clinical background and personal insights of being a betrayal partner himself, Adam creates a supportive and understanding environment, where clients are led through their journey of healing with compassion and wisdom. ​Holding a degree from Pacifica Graduate Institute with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling, and Depth Psychology, Adam has committed his career to addressing critical issues such as betrayal, infidelity, sex addiction, and the myriad life challenges that accompany them. With Adam, the journey is not just about recovery; it's about embarking on a path of profound personal growth and rediscovery. To Healing, Sam ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Jul 23, 202527 min

S1 Ep 50EP 50: Interview with a former unfaithful: "I Was Afraid to Let Go of the Lies..."

Today's episode is a story that begins where most love stories unravel: with a lie. Actually… with many lies. Our guest today is a great friend of mine and was also unfaithful to his wife. But the cheating, while devastating, was only part of the story. What nearly destroyed everything wasn't just the act—it was the lies that followed. The deception. The pretending. The carefully managed version of the truth, told piece by piece, always leaving something out and or 'trickle truthing'. And every time he lied—whether to cover his tracks, avoid a hard conversation, or protect himself from shame—he pulled their marriage further into the abyss. Lying became a pattern. A habit. A way of surviving. He was in survival mode....while his wife was also in survival mode, not knowing what was truth and what was a lie. But what happens when the lies stop working? At some point, they did. And he found himself at a crossroads: keep living in the lie and slowly lose everything that mattered—or come clean. Not just about the affair, but about the man he had become. The fears he hid. The ways he had failed. The ways he had justified it all. And so, finally, he told the truth. It was ugly. It was painful. It didn't make anything easier in the short term. In fact, telling the full truth almost shattered what little was left of their trust. But it was real. And for the first time in a long time, so was he. This episode isn't about excusing infidelity. It's about owning it. It's about the brutal but beautiful process of rebuilding not just a marriage—but a life—from the inside out. It's about an unfaithful that actually DID CHOOSE TO DO THE WORK and is continuing to do it. Today, years later, this man is still married to the woman he betrayed. Not because it was easy. Not because she forgot. But because they both chose to walk through fire—together. He made the courageous decision to stay, to change, to show up with radical honesty every single day since. And now? Their marriage is real. It's honest. And it's alive in a way it never was before. So if you've ever struggled with truth, if you've ever hidden behind lies you thought would protect you—this episode is for you. If you've ever wondered whether a relationship can survive betrayal, if trust can ever truly be rebuilt—this story is proof that while the damage may run deep, healing is possible. This is about choosing truth, even when it costs everything. This is about doing the work, staying when it's hard, and learning how to love honestly—even after breaking someone's heart and becoming something and someone you're embarrassed by. People heal. Couples heal. Unfaithful spouses do the work. To Healing, Sam ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Jul 8, 202529 min

S1 Ep 49EP 49: Tyler Patrick LMFT Discusses Avoidance and Defensiveness in the Life of the Unfaithful Spouse

Tyler Patrick LMFT returns to the podcast to discuss why we the unfaithful constantly revert to defensiveness and avoidance when trying to heal ourselves or our relationships. Have you ever wondered why you, the unfaithful, will fire back to your partner's questions or comments with harsh defensiveness? Can you remember a time when you WEREN'T DEFENSIVE? What about avoidance? Has avoidance become your best friend when it comes to surviving infidelity as well as life's stresses and anxieties? Do you think there is a reason you're avoidant? Has it proven to be a safe haven for you or a maladaptive coping mechanism that continues to alienate and frustrate the loved ones around you? So, how's it working for you? Today you'll get to know Tyler Patrick even better and hear his hear for those in crisis while also learning deeper understanding for why we do what we do when we're trying to find a light at the end of the tunnel. As a marriage and family therapist, Tyler has dedicated his career to mastering an understanding of recovery from sexual addiction and betrayal trauma. He's come to believe that the men and women who embrace and live the principles of recovery do far more than get their lives back, they become the best kinds of husbands and wives, fathers and mothers. He's honored to act as a guide and support to those who embark in the life transformation of living a connected lifestyle. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Jul 2, 202531 min

S1 Ep 48EP 48: "I've Got You Now..." A Psychological Game Couples Play When Trying to Heal from Infidelity

Continuing the series on "Psychological Games Couples Play," Michael Webb and I discuss another game within the realm of Psychological Games. This game is not only deep but usually ingrained within the communication style of one or both parties. It's called "I've Got You Now...." It's one of the most insidious games couples fall into subconsciously as they seek to heal from infidelity and betrayal trauma. While able to be overcome and eventually diffused, it requires a deeper journey into the mind and trauma, of the unfaithful and betrayed. Couples who are dealing with this game often times feel as though they are being set up by their partner. It can feel as though their partner is creating what we call a 'double bind' all in an attempt to prove a point that can scorch the earth of the argument. Couples who struggle with this game are not on thin ice, but they do find themselves looking for any sort of way out of the quick sand and today Michael Webb shares exactly that. Ever find yourself in the same frustrating argument with someone, especially your spouse— even though it starts off innocent and you swear this time it'll go differently? But somehow, it spirals into a familiar mess? Psychological games are repetitive patterns of hidden communication people play with each other, often unconsciously. They seem harmless on the surface, but they end with someone feeling hurt, guilty, or angry — just like before. These games follow a pattern: A hidden motive or unspoken message A predictable sequence of interactions A negative payoff (emotional discomfort or conflict) They're not about fun — more like emotional traps that we fall into, often learned in childhood, resulting in confusion, hurt feelings and deep seated resentment. Transactional Analysis, developed by psychiatrist Eric Berne, is a theory of communication and personality. In TA, our interactions are seen as "transactions" between different parts of ourselves: 👶 Child (emotions, creativity, needs, or rebellion) 👨‍👩‍👧 Parent (rules, judgments, values — often inherited from authority figures) 🧑 Adult (rational, in-the-moment decision-making) When people interact, they're often unconsciously switching between these ego states. Games happen when there's a mismatch or hidden motive behind a transaction — for example, someone may act like they want help (Adult to Adult), but are actually seeking to feel victimized (Child to Parent). Today Michael Webb shares how couples subconsciously participate in these games, especially those dealing with infidelity or addiction and highlights a massively toxic game of "I've Got You Now....." ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Jun 24, 202538 min

S1 Ep 47EP 47: A One on One Discussion with Psychotherapist Lauren LaRusso on Infidelity and Betrayal Trauma

Today you'll meet Lauren LaRusso, a well known face on social media and true expert to those looking for hope, healing and new life after the discovery of infidelity. Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Creative Writing from The College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, and a Masters in Professional Counseling from The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. In her years of work as a psychotherapist in private practice, Lauren has helped countless individuals and couples process the extramarital affairs that are impacting their life. Infidelity affected her own life along with the lives of countless others she's cared about. It eventually became a clear path for her mission to help others dealing with the aftermath of infidelity and betrayal. With her unique lens, she combines valuable lived experience and specialized professional expertise to provide intensive, solution-focused consultation to clients far and wide who are struggling with infidelity. ​She has helped countless individuals transform their life's greatest challenges into opportunities for positive growth and change in her private psychotherapy practice. ​She uses a relational, trauma-informed, and recovery-focused approach to her work with individuals and couples far and wide who are navigating the complex and painful dynamics of marital affairs. You can find more about Laura and her practice by visiting her website: https://www.laurenlarusso.com For more help or information about Sam you can reach out to him personally at [email protected] ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Jun 18, 202532 min

S1 Ep 46EP 46: A Betrayed Male Shares His Story of How He & His Wife Saved Their Marriage After Infidelity

Healing from infidelity is no easy task. Whether a betrayed male or female, the pain can feel as though it has no purpose, no redemption and no light at the end of the tunnel. Today you'll meet Randall who shares his own story of not only excruciating emotional pain and hurt, but also how he and his wife have found healing, joy and redemption. Randall pulls no punches as he shares insight into what worked for him and what didn't work. What provided clarity and what caused even more hurt pain and confusion. Ultimately, Randall knew he had to get healthy for him. What followed was a chain of events which is truly compelling to hear how he and his wife have been able to rise from the ashes and not just exist, but find purpose and beauty despite betrayal. Not every journey ends in restoration. Some marriages make it....some don't. Some marriages quite honestly, shouldn't be saved and others have every opportunity at new life and new hope if BOTH parties can find and commit to a process that's expert driven. We make our choices and then our choices make us. I hope as you listen to Randall, you'll make the choice to get healthy for you and do whatever it takes to heal yourself. You can't change your partner, but you can change you and you can build a life you're proud of once again and that you enjoy living. To New Hope, Samuel ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Jun 12, 202527 min

S1 Ep 45EP 45: "We're Stuck After the Disclosure of Infidelity" When is it Time for an Intensive?

Today, relationship and expert therapist James Annear joins me to discuss when it's time to forgo individual or couples work and proceed right ahead to an intensive. If you're on my page, you know the disclosure of infidelity is a devastating moment in any relationship. Whether the betrayal was emotional, physical, or both, it strikes at the core of trust and safety between partners. While many couples turn to individual or weekly couples therapy for support and guidance, there are circumstances where this traditional approach may not be sufficient. In some cases, a relationship intensive—an immersive, multi-day therapeutic experience—may be a more appropriate and effective route for healing. Knowing when to forgo regular therapy in favor of an intensive can make the difference between prolonged suffering and a path toward meaningful repair. The Nature of an Intensive A relationship intensive, often conducted over one to three full days, provides concentrated therapeutic work with a trained specialist like James and his wife Sharon who have both been through infidelity and addiction. Unlike weekly sessions that typically last 50 minutes and stretch over months, intensives offer uninterrupted time to dive deeply into the root issues of the relationship, address trauma, process the affair, and build a new framework for communication and trust. Why Traditional Therapy Sometimes Falls Short While weekly therapy is beneficial in many contexts, it can present several limitations in the wake of infidelity and without expert help, many mistakes are made and many couples are unfortunately mishandled. Escalating Conflict: Weekly sessions often do not provide enough containment for couples in crisis. If emotions are volatile—such as anger, shame, or grief—short, infrequent sessions may be insufficient to de-escalate conflict or facilitate real connection. Therapist Mismatch: Some therapists may not be specifically trained in affair recovery or betrayal trauma. A mismatch in therapeutic focus or skill can lead to further misunderstanding or harm. Readiness and Urgency: Some couples are in a time-sensitive situation—perhaps considering separation or divorce—and need to determine, quickly and with support, whether their relationship has a viable path forward. Weekly sessions may not provide answers fast enough. When to Consider an Intensive There are several signs that an intensive may be a better option than traditional therapy after the disclosure of infidelity: 1. The Crisis Feels Too Big for Weekly Therapy When the emotional impact of the affair is overwhelming, and one or both partners feel like they're drowning in pain, confusion, or rage, an intensive provides immediate structure and emotional containment. It can offer clarity and de-escalation that weekly sessions often cannot provide in the short term. 2. The Betrayal is Part of a Larger Pattern If the affair is not an isolated incident but part of a long-standing pattern of deceit, boundary violations, or emotional disengagement, a deeper intervention is needed. Intensives allow therapists to explore historical dynamics, family-of-origin wounds, and systemic patterns that contribute to chronic disconnection. 3. The Couple Wants to Rebuild But Doesn't Know How After infidelity, some couples desperately want to stay together but feel unequipped to rebuild trust or intimacy. An intensive gives them dedicated time to begin this work with the guidance of a specialist, offering a structured approach to re-establish emotional safety, accountability, and a new foundation for the relationship. 5. Stalled or Re-Traumatizing Progress in Traditional Therapy If the couple has already tried regular counseling and feels stuck, misunderstood, or re-traumatized, it may be time for a reset. Intensives often provide trauma-informed care that validates the betrayed partner's experience while guiding the unfaithful partner toward genuine empathy and accountability. 6. High Stakes or a Tipping Point When a couple is on the brink of separation but isn't ready to give up, an intensive can serve as a last effort to explore whether reconciliation is possible. It offers the tools and support to make informed decisions about the future, whether that means rebuilding or parting with integrity. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with de

Jun 8, 202531 min

S1 Ep 44EP 44: Featuring Michael Webb and Psychological Games Couples Play: "If It Weren't for You..."

Continuing the series on "Psychological Games Couples Play," Michael Webb and I discuss another game within the realm of Psychological Games called If It Weren't for You. Ever find yourself in the same frustrating argument with someone, especially your spouse— even though it starts off innocent and you swear this time it'll go differently? But somehow, it spirals into a familiar mess? That's not just bad luck. You might be stuck in a psychological game. Psychological games are repetitive patterns of hidden communication people play with each other, often unconsciously. They seem harmless on the surface, but they end with someone feeling hurt, guilty, or angry — just like before. These games follow a pattern: A hidden motive or unspoken message A predictable sequence of interactions A negative payoff (emotional discomfort or conflict) They're not about fun — more like emotional traps that we fall into, often learned in childhood, resulting in confusion, hurt feelings and deep seated resentment. Transactional Analysis, developed by psychiatrist Eric Berne, is a theory of communication and personality. In TA, our interactions are seen as "transactions" between different parts of ourselves: 👶 Child (emotions, creativity, needs, or rebellion) 👨‍👩‍👧 Parent (rules, judgments, values — often inherited from authority figures) 🧑 Adult (rational, in-the-moment decision-making) When people interact, they're often unconsciously switching between these ego states. Games happen when there's a mismatch or hidden motive behind a transaction — for example, someone may act like they want help (Adult to Adult), but are actually seeking to feel victimized (Child to Parent). Today Michael Webb shares how couples subconsciously participate in these games, especially those dealing with infidelity or addiction and highlights a massively toxic game of If It Weren't for You..... ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Jun 8, 202536 min

S1 Ep 43EP 43: Interview with Adam Nisenson LMFT, Author of A Man's Guide to Partner Betrayal

Meet Adam Nisenson, known as the Betrayal Shrink. Adam combines his extensive clinical skills with a deeply empathetic heart in his role as a Betrayal Trauma Coach. Licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Adam is dedicated to guiding men through the complex emotions and challenges of betrayal trauma. He's also the author of A Man's Guide to Partner Betrayal, which is a one of a kind book geared towards betrayed men, hoping to find new life after their partner's infidelity. His methodology is deeply influenced by his intimate grasp of the trials faced by men confronting a partner's infidelity. Leveraging his extensive clinical background and personal insights of being a betrayal partner himself, Adam creates a supportive and understanding environment, where clients are led through their journey of healing with compassion and wisdom. ​ Holding a degree from Pacifica Graduate Institute with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling, and Depth Psychology, Adam has committed his career to addressing critical issues such as betrayal, infidelity, sex addiction, and the myriad life challenges that accompany them. With Adam, the journey is not just about recovery; it's about embarking on a path of profound personal growth and rediscovery. You can find more about Adam here: https://www.betrayalshrink.com/ See you next time, Sam ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

May 21, 202529 min

S1 Ep 42EP 42: Kevin, A Betrayed Male's Journey with Infidelity, Autism and Incomprehensible Trauma

Today you'll meet a friend of mine, Kevin who shares his own journey with infidelity as a betrayed male and Autism. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person perceives the world and interacts with others. It's called a "spectrum" because it includes a wide range of characteristics and levels of support needs, from mild to significant. Key Features of Autism: Social communication difficulties: Challenges with understanding and using verbal and nonverbal language, such as tone of voice, facial expressions, or gestures. Repetitive behaviors and routines: Repeating movements (like hand-flapping), phrases, or having strict routines and resistance to change. Intense interests: Deep focus on specific topics or activities, sometimes to the exclusion of others. Sensory sensitivities: Over- or under-sensitivity to lights, sounds, textures, smells, or pain. Other Points: Autism is not a disease and doesn't need to be "cured" — it's a difference in brain wiring. It can be diagnosed in early childhood, but some people aren't diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood. Some autistic individuals need significant daily support, while others live independently and may even see their autism as a key part of their identity. Autism can affect how a person processes and heals from infidelity in several unique ways, largely because of differences in emotional regulation, communication, trust, and social cognition. Here's how it might impact the healing process: 1. Difficulty with Emotional Processing Autistic individuals may experience emotions very deeply but struggle to express or interpret them — both in themselves and others. This can make processing betrayal more overwhelming or confusing: They might ruminate on the event more intensely or for longer. Emotional pain might show up as shutdowns, meltdowns, or withdrawal rather than verbal expression. 2. Struggles with Change and Uncertainty Infidelity introduces chaos and unpredictability into a relationship, which can be especially difficult for someone on the spectrum: Many autistic people rely on routine, predictability, and structure to feel safe. The loss of emotional security can feel destabilizing. Rebuilding trust may be slower, as they may not "move on" in the same way neurotypical people might. 3. Literal Thinking and Trust Autistic people often think in black-and-white terms, which can make infidelity feel like an irreparable breach: Trust, once broken, might not feel recoverable. Concepts like "emotional cheating" or gray areas in relationships can be especially confusing or hurtful. 4. Communication Challenges Discussing feelings, negotiating boundaries, and engaging in therapy can be more complex: The autistic partner might have difficulty articulating what they need to feel safe again. Or they may struggle to understand or validate their partner's perspective if it's not clearly communicated. 5. Social Naivety or Misreading Cues Some autistic individuals may be more socially naive or miss subtle signs of trouble in a relationship, so discovering infidelity can come as a greater shock.

May 14, 202528 min

Ep 41EP 41: Featuring John Lee: Help for the Enmeshed Unfaithful Partner Healing from Infidelity and Shame

Today John Lee joins me to discuss how enmeshment shows up in the life of the unfaithful partner as they wrestle to find freedom from shame and emotional immaturity. You'll find John's humor and straight forward nature to not only be a breath of fresh air, but validating for the betrayed partner and liberating for the unfaithful. We roam free today discussing how safety is an inside job for both partners, while also helping to pinpoint areas the unfaithful can show themselves strong for both their own healing as well as their partner's. While the concept of regression is a cornerstone in healing from infidelity and addiction, John also shares pinpoint insight into how to break free from both destructive and paralyzing patterns that sabotage the entire recovery process. John Lee, best-selling author of The Flying Boy: Healing the Wounded Man, has written twenty-five books, including his latest release, Odd One Out: Radical Revelations on Relationships, Self-Help, and Personal Growth. John's highly innovative work in the fields of emotional intelligence, anger management and emotional regression has made him an in-demand consultant, teacher, trainer, coach and speaker. His contributions in the fields of recovery, relationships, men's issues, spirituality, parenting and creativity have put him in the national spotlight for over twenty years. He has been featured on Oprah, 20/20, Barbara Walter's, The View, CNN, PBS, and NPR. He has been interviewed by Newsweek, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, and dozens of other national and international magazines and radio talk shows. John Lee has consulted and trained prestigious institutions in the clinical environment including The Betty Ford Clinic, Guy's Hospital (London, England), The New York Open Center, The Hanley Center (West Palm Beach, FL), South Pacific Hospital (Sydney, Australia), and Mountain Area Health and Education Center (North Carolina), and numerous others. John's work in recovery, codependency, and adult children has positioned him as a leader in the field of addiction. His unique approach to anger management has not only been embraced by the therapeutic community, but by the corporate sector and the general public. His non-traditional approach has been taught worldwide with great success. His Austin and Mentone Intensives have attracted highly-motivated clients who want more one-on-one time than the usual fifty-minute hour can provide. John's work with men's issues has positioned him as one of the leaders and early pioneers of the men's movement. His Mentone, Alabama Men's Conference (co-hosted with Robert Bly) ran for 16 years and drew participants from around the world. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

May 7, 202532 min

S1 Ep 40EP 40: Interview with Amanda Asproni: What is Enmeshment and How Does it Affect Affair Recovery Work?

Enmeshment is a term from psychology that describes a relationship dynamic where personal boundaries are overly blurred, and people become emotionally over-involved with each other. It often happens in families or close relationships, where one person's emotions, needs, or identity are heavily entangled with another's, to the point that individual autonomy is lost. For example, a parent might rely on their child for emotional support inappropriately, or feel threatened when the child seeks independence. It can feel like you're not allowed to have your own thoughts, feelings, or choices without it affecting—or being controlled by—someone else. Enmeshment makes it hard for a betrayed spouse to understand their partner's infidelity because their emotional world is so intertwined with their partner's that the betrayal doesn't just hurt—it shatters their sense of reality. Today you'll hear from Amanda Asproni, an expert in both affair recovery and enmeshment who has not only lived through this enmeshment but has also found freedom and healing from both enmeshment and betrayal trauma. Here's why it's so hard to heal from betrayal trauma when enmeshment has further complicated the healing process: No "separate self" to fall back on: In an enmeshed relationship, the betrayed spouse may not have a strong sense of individual identity outside the relationship. So when their partner cheats, it feels like their own identity is being torn apart. It's not just "You hurt me", it's "Who even am I if you did this?" Extreme cognitive dissonance: In enmeshed dynamics, the relationship is often idealized. So the idea that the partner could cheat feels impossible to reconcile—it doesn't fit the internal narrative. Instead of thinking, "You made a choice I don't understand," the betrayed spouse might think, "I must have missed something huge, or this is somehow my fault." Over-identification with the other: They may focus more on why their partner cheated (looking to fix or understand them), instead of processing their own hurt. There's often a compulsion to keep the relationship intact—even if it means bypassing their own emotions or truth. Emotional fusion blocks objectivity: When feelings are so closely linked, it's hard to step back and evaluate the situation clearly. The betrayed spouse may feel their partner's pain more than their own, or become obsessed with "making sense of it" to ease the chaos inside. At its core, enmeshment turns betrayal into an identity crisis rather than just a relational rupture—which makes understanding the infidelity way more painful and confusing. While entanglement can be overwhelming, there is way out and there is a pathway to healing for you and your own journey. Keep Going, Sam To contact Amanda Asproni please email her at [email protected] To contact Sam please email him at [email protected]

Apr 30, 202522 min

S1 Ep 28EP 39: Interview with Max: How Does the Betrayed Partner Deal with Comparisons with the Affair Partner?

How do you reclaim your worth when your reflection is distorted by someone else's betrayal—when every glance in the mirror whispers, 'they chose them over me".... or "they gave them what they wouldn't give me?" The cruelest part of infidelity isn't just the betrayal—it's the quiet, relentless comparison that follows. Today you'll hear from frequent guest Max and how he was able to break free from what felt like insurmountable comparisons with multiple affair partners. When you're betrayed, it often times feels like being erased while still standing right there. Like someone took everything you were proud of—your love, your body, your quirks, your memories—and put them on a scale against a stranger you never invited into your story. Being compared to an affair partner can feel like: A. Losing a silent competition you never knew you were in. Suddenly, you're questioning your looks, your personality, your value. You start noticing flaws you never saw before, because you're measuring yourself against someone who shouldn't even be in the picture. You begin to question everything in life and in your relationship. B. Betrayal layered with shame. It's not just that they chose someone else—it's the gut-punch that maybe they thought that other person was more exciting, more desirable and more of a fit for them. Somehow, that shame sticks to you, even though you're not the one who cheated. C. Being trapped in your own mind. Even if no one says it out loud, you hear the comparisons anyway. You imagine what they had that you didn't. You replay moments in your head, trying to figure out why they were willing to risk so much, for so little. D. A deep hit to your identity. It makes you doubt who you are. What you offered. Whether anything you shared was ever truly seen, let alone appreciated. It's grief mixed with self-doubt, anger tangled up with sorrow. And worst of all, it's incredibly isolating—because even when you're surrounded by people, it can still feel like you're alone in a room full of questions. Despite the agony of it all, there is a way through and there is healing available for you. It's vital to remember you are not alone and you are not the only one. It doesn't mean it won't feel like it and it doesn't mean you won't question what feels like everything and maybe even everyone at times. Perhaps today you'll find there is light at the end of the tunnel and there are survivors to this agonizing pain who return from the shadows with a torch in their hand, ready to share their heroic journey of survival and resilience. To Healing, Sam ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Apr 22, 202532 min

S1 Ep 38EP 38: Interview with Michael Webb: Understanding the 'Psychological Games' Couples Play With Each Other

Ever find yourself in the same frustrating argument with someone, especially your spouse— even though it starts off innocent and you swear this time it'll go differently? But somehow, it spirals into a familiar mess? That's not just bad luck. You might be stuck in a psychological game. Psychological games are repetitive patterns of hidden communication people play with each other, often unconsciously. They seem harmless on the surface, but they end with someone feeling hurt, guilty, or angry — just like before. These games follow a pattern: A hidden motive or unspoken message A predictable sequence of interactions A negative payoff (emotional discomfort or conflict) They're not about fun — more like emotional traps that we fall into, often learned in childhood, resulting in confusion, hurt feelings and deep seated resentment. Transactional Analysis, developed by psychiatrist Eric Berne, is a theory of communication and personality. In TA, our interactions are seen as "transactions" between different parts of ourselves: 👶 Child (emotions, creativity, needs, or rebellion) 👨‍👩‍👧 Parent (rules, judgments, values — often inherited from authority figures) 🧑 Adult (rational, in-the-moment decision-making) When people interact, they're often unconsciously switching between these ego states. Games happen when there's a mismatch or hidden motive behind a transaction — for example, someone may act like they want help (Adult to Adult), but are actually seeking to feel victimized (Child to Parent). Today Michael Webb shares how couples subconsciously participate in these games, especially those dealing with infidelity or addiction.

Apr 15, 202528 min

S1 Ep 37EP 37: Samuel and Michael Webb: What Do You Do When You Don't Have Control Over Your Spouse's Behavior?

What do you do when you don't have control over your spouse's behavior? What do you do when they won't forgive you, if you're an unfaithful? What do you do when your unfaithful won't do recovery work or won't go all in when you're a betrayed? What do you do when you or your partner associate pain with vulnerability or intimacy due to childhood or developmental trauma? We call this feeling powerlessness and quite honestly, most of us hate it and run from it. If we don't run from it, we try and rally against it, usually causing ourselves and most people around us, more harm. Powerlessness is the feeling of being unable to influence, control, or change something or someone in your life, often leaving you feeling helpless, hopeless or stuck. It's a state where you feel like your actions, decisions, or desires have little or no effect on the outcomes you face, or on the environment around you, including whether or not your spouse will do repair work after infidelity. This feeling can arise from external circumstances (like an oppressive situation or a lack of resources) or internal struggles (like feeling overwhelmed by paralyzing anxiety, emotions or mental health challenges). When dealing with any form of trauma, especially betrayal trauma, both spouses can feel as though the journey is hopeless and without any real tangible reason to keep going. However, today Michael Webb shares palatable and life changing hope for those who feel as though they are helpless to bring about any change in either their own life or their partner's. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Apr 9, 202543 min

S1 Ep 36EP 36: Interview with Max, A Betrayed Male: "I Didn't Want to Believe This Was Happening to Me."

Today Max and I discuss a poignant moment in his own compelling journey where he admits "I didn't want to believe this was happening to me." As you'll hear in today's raw and personal discussion, infidelity and denial are deeply intertwined issues that can have a profound impact on the betrayed spouse. Whether male or female, infidelity strikes at the core of our being, creating a staggering feeling of powerlessness. When powerlessness then seeps into helpless and hopelessness, the end result is often times rage. Max is no different that countless betrayed partners who have struggled to accept the devastation inflicted upon them by their unfaithful partner and their reckless choices. However, it's a common fact that many betrayed men struggle to embrace that this awful agony has visited their lives and their families. Yes, denial is part of the grieving process, however it's often times a coping mechanism to push away the enormity of the situation. We as men feel dazed, confused and humiliated, ashamed to share our story. With the same courage and passion of previous episodes, Max dives deep into his own psyche as he retells the story of finding out more and more information, leading him to ultimately and regrettably, end the marriage. The sad reality is not every marriage makes it and not every unfaithful partner takes ownership of their choices. Many do, but many do not. Equally true is the fact that not every betrayed partner chooses to carry on, courageously and relentlessly into new life. Many remain stuck, paralyzed by the agony of their lives and the brokenness of their hopes and dreams. Rest assured, as you hear Max share his own story of survival, you too can have a story of not only surviving but overcoming. I hope you find solace today in the fact that whether betrayed or unfaithful, male or female, you are not alone in this journey. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Apr 2, 202533 min

S1 Ep 35EP35: Samuel Interviews Johnathan Who Shares His Journey of Healing From Cancer & His Wife's Affair

Today you'll meet Jonathan, a friend of mine and survivor of both infidelity and stage four cancer. Yes, he's a victim of infidelity as a betrayed male, but he's also a warrior which is what any betrayed partner is who decides to keep on living after such devastating pain. Betrayal can hit particularly hard for men due to several deep-rooted psychological, cultural, and emotional factors. Betrayal for anyone can be devastating but there are a few key points for betrayed men that are worth considering: Trust and Vulnerability. At the core of betrayal is trust. Men, like anyone, invest emotionally when they trust someone, whether it's a partner, friend, or even a family member. Betrayal breaks that trust, and with it, the sense of security that person had built. The pain comes from the feeling of having been vulnerable and then being taken advantage of or deceived. Men might internalize this as a failure to read the situation or themselves being "weak" for trusting in the first place. Cultural Expectations of Strength. Society often expects men to be strong, stoic, and in control of their emotions. Betrayal challenges this expectation, as it can be incredibly painful and leave men feeling exposed, emotional, or even powerless. This is in direct conflict with the cultural ideal that men should be impervious to emotional pain or setbacks. Loss of Identity. Especially in close relationships, a betrayal can feel like an attack on a man's (and woman's) sense of self. This is amplified when it involves a partner or someone they deeply care about. When someone breaks the trust, it can leave the individual questioning their own judgment, self-worth, and even their ability to trust others in the future. This can erode a sense of identity, making betrayal feel like a personal failure or a loss. Fear of Rejection and Loneliness. Men, like women, fear rejection, and betrayal often taps into this fear. For example, if a partner betrays them, it may feel like a rejection of who they are, and that rejection can hurt at a level of unthinkable hurt. This fear of being left alone or unworthy is often heightened in a relationship where emotional intimacy and dependence are involved. Loss of Control. Betrayal can be a major shock to the system, particularly when it's unexpected. Men who pride themselves on being able to control their surroundings and relationships might find it especially difficult to accept when something like betrayal is completely out of their control. The feeling of helplessness can magnify the emotional toll. Rationalizing Emotional Pain. Sometimes, men are socialized to suppress their emotions or "deal with it" without expressing vulnerability. As a result, the hurt from betrayal can fester under the surface, and while they might logically understand the betrayal, the emotional impact can go unaddressed, making it harder to heal from the wound. The Impact on Masculinity. Some men might view betrayal through the lens of masculinity. In certain contexts, being betrayed—whether in business, friendship, or love—can feel like an affront to their own masculinity, as it may be perceived as a failure to "protect" themselves or others. This could add to feelings of shame, confusion, or anger. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Mar 30, 202528 min

S1 Ep 34EP 34: Interview w/a CPTSD Expert & Neuroscientist on Infidelity, Betrayal Trauma & Psychotropics

The topic of CPTSD (Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and infidelity is important because infidelity can trigger complex trauma responses, especially for individuals who have a history of unresolved trauma or are vulnerable to the effects of betrayal. The intersection of these two can cause profound emotional and psychological damage, making it crucial to understand how infidelity can exacerbate or even trigger CPTSD symptoms. Today you'll hear from a survivor of infidelity who also happens to be an expert in CPTSD, as well as a Neuroscientist who will discuss the effects of CPTSD on the brain and nervous system. We'll also discuss the effects and use of psychotropics for those who deal with betrayal trauma, CPTSD or addiction. CPTSD often stems from early-life relational trauma—such as abuse or neglect by caregivers or partners—leading to attachment insecurity. For individuals with CPTSD, relationships are especially important for their sense of security and self-worth. Infidelity shatters this already fragile attachment system. The act of betrayal may feel like a direct attack on their sense of self and their ability to trust others. It may also reinforce feelings of inadequacy and unlovability, common in CPTSD, making recovery even more challenging for the betrayed spouse. Understanding the connection between CPTSD and infidelity is essential because it allows us to see the deep, often hidden layers of emotional trauma that infidelity can trigger, especially for those who have a history of prolonged abuse or neglect. Infidelity isn't just a single betrayal; it can act as a re-traumatizing event for someone with CPTSD, setting off powerful emotional reactions that can complicate healing and recovery. This is why healing from both infidelity and CPTSD requires specialized, compassionate care like those you'll meet today—and why it's important for those affected to understand the depth of their trauma in order to seek out the most appropriate support. For more information you can contact Samuel at [email protected]. To contact Amanda Asproni you can do so at Amanda‪@amandaelliottasproni‬ or amanda@[email protected]. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Mar 19, 202536 min

S1 Ep 33EP 33: Samuel Interviews Paige A Betrayed Female Spouse: "I'm So Much Stronger Than I Thought I Was"

Today you'll meet Paige, a betrayed spouse who is both courageous, vibrant and resilient. Months ago on Samuel's Instagram there were several poems that were written that were moving, powerful and gut wrenching all at the same time. Paige was in fact the author of those poems and has agreed to share some of her story with the audience. While some marriages don't make it, Paige's marriage is thriving and passionate, proving that it's often times not as hopeless as it seems. Respectfully, not every marriage makes it and not every marriage should be saved. From a refusal to get help or end the affair(s), to narcissistic abuse, to domestic violence, some marriages should end. However, despite what one may read in forums or comments on blogs, videos or Instagram posts, some unfaithful are worth the effort and many marriages do in fact, find healing and restoration. While staying after infidelity is the new public shame, today you'll hear from a woman of great courage and commitment, who did the work while her husband did AND continues to do the to heal wounds he inflicted by his choices. Maybe one day you too will say as Paige did: "I am so much stronger than I thought I was." ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Mar 14, 202519 min

S1 Ep 32EP 32: Interview with Max a Betrayed Male Spouse on Toxic Comparisons with the Affair Partner

How does the betrayed deal with comparisons to the affair partner(s)? This issue remains one of the most difficult, overwhelming and traumatizing aspects of infidelity. Why wasn't I enough? Why wasn't I enough for them to stay committed to the marriage? What was lacking in me or in our relationship that would lead them to go outside the marriage or relationship? Today Max and I discuss how he's been able to heal from these questions and more. As a betrayed spouse, Max has continued to share his pain and arduous journey, displaying vulnerability and insight into how he's found clarity and peace with his wife's affairs and his own outcome. Every situation is different and unique. No story is the same, however there are helpful insights that pertain to betrayed male and female partners across the globe. Comparing ourselves with affair partners is normal but both awful and paralyzing. But, it doesn't have to be. There is a way through and there is a way to grieve through the pain and ultimately heal. Today you'll hear more from Max and I as we share helpful insight into how to move forward into new life and new hope. You're not alone and you're not without hope today. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Mar 5, 202534 min

S1 Ep 31EP 31: Samuel Interviews Max, A Betrayed Male Who Shares His Story of How He Dealt With Shame

A soon to be regular contributor to the podcast, Max returns to discuss the shame of the betrayed male. While not entirely different than the betrayed female, Max goes to great length to describe his own shame and trauma associated with his wife's multiple affairs. From isolation to loneliness, to embarrassment and outright despair, Max takes us down a journey of just how hard it was to find his footing after both his wife's disclosure and multiple relapses. It's a normal response for the betrayed to often times blame themselves for their partner's affairs and today you'll hear a betrayed male courageously share how he worked through what felt like endless shame and blame for his wife's acting out. He further shares practical insight into how he found freedom and healing from both the shame and the betrayal trauma. Today is a must watch for those trying to make sense of our their own betrayal trauma. Additionally, it's a crash course for the unfaithful to hear how our choices have affected the betrayed, both male and female. Listen carefully to the heart of Max as he very bravely and unashamedly discusses how he made it through. I see you betrayed. I hope today is a life preserver within the midst of what feels like an endless ocean of confusion and hurt. There is hope for you and your own healing. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Feb 19, 202533 min

S1 Ep 30EP 30: Samuel Interviews Max, a Betrayed Male Spouse Who Shares His Courageous Story of Healing

Today you'll meet a great friend of mine by the name of Max. He's an author of two books, an editor, a guitar player, a gracious speaker and unfortunately a betrayed male spouse. Today you'll hear some of his story and more importantly, all of his heart. I've said this in videos, written blogs and interviews over close to 20 years that the journey of the betrayed male spouse is different. It's nuanced. It has edges to it that are not any 'worse' than the betrayed female, but the realities and the scenery is a bit different. Again, not harder, not easier than the betrayed female, but different. Today Max taps into what was so different and gut wrenching for him as a male, feeling like he was and is on an island somewhere in the middle of an ocean that only a select few know about, but no one knows how to find, discover or rescue. If you're a betrayed female you probably feel exactly the same at times? Today is for both male and female, unfaithful and betrayed. If you're an unfaithful, there are massive bombs of truth in here for you to hear and absorb. If you're a betrayed male, I'm honored you'd stop by. You're safe here. You can reach out for support at [email protected] ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Feb 5, 202532 min

S1 Ep 29EP 29: Dr. Debi Silber PhD Discusses Betrayal Trauma & The Post Betrayal Transformation Institute with Sam

Do people really heal from infidelity? Do people ever really get their lives back after being betrayed? What does it mean to actually be a survivor of infidelity and betrayal? Today you'll meet the epitome of not only someone who has healed from infidelity but has returned from the depths of pain and agony to light the way for others to heal. Dr. Debi Silber PhD has become a household name for survivors of infidelity while providing exceptional content, insight and tangible hope for those endeavoring to heal after infidelity and betrayal. Dr. Debi Silber, Ph.D. is the founder of The PBT® (Post-Betrayal Transformation®) Institute. She also runs a WBENC-Certified WBE (Women's Business Enterprise) company, is a holistic psychologist, a health, mindset, and personal development expert, an award winning speaker, the author of Trust Again, The Rebuild Roadmap, and a 2-time #1 International bestselling author of The Unshakable Woman AND From Hardened to Healed. Her podcast: From Betrayal to Breakthrough is also globally ranked within the top 1.5% of podcasts. Her Ph.D. study on how we experience betrayal made 3 groundbreaking discoveries that change how long it takes to heal. In addition to being on FOX, CBS, The Dr. Oz Show, TEDx (twice), and more, she's an award-winning speaker and coach dedicated to helping people move past their betrayals as well as any other blocks preventing them from the health, work, relationships, confidence, and happiness they want most. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Jan 31, 202536 min

S1 Ep 28EP 28: What is a Trauma Bond and Is It Possible to Break Free? Trauma Expert Amanda Asproni Joins Sam

What is a trauma bond? Are you or someone you know lost in one? Is it just an infidelity issue or can you be trauma-bonded to someone who hasn't cheated on you? Today on the podcast I speak with regular contributor, Amanda Asproni and discuss these types of bonds, how addicting they are, and how to find freedom and healing from such a bond. We often wonder, "Why can't I break free of him or her?" We feel weak, frail and often times confused on why we feel like we need this person in our life. It's like we only get so far away from them, only so much freedom from them, only to have them suck us back into their lives. "Sometimes it's great and we're just fine.....other times....not so much." It can feel like a drug we just can't let go of. If you're often times using those statements, you just may be in a trauma bond. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Dec 18, 202423 min

S1 Ep 27EP 27: Trauma Expert Amanda Asproni Discusses the Anxious Attachment Style, Infidelity and Betrayal Trauma

Are you or your partner anxious when it comes to an attachment style? What is the anxious attachment style you might ask? An anxious attachment style is a type of insecure attachment that causes people to feel a deep need for validation and reassurance from others often preventing that individual from living a secure life relationally. People with an anxious attachment style may: Fear rejection and abandonment Come across as clingy or needy Have difficulty setting boundaries Have trouble accepting other people's boundaries Have big reactions to small conflicts Overanalyze or overthink their partner's behaviors Become jealous or possessive easily The anxious attachment style usually developed in childhood as a coping mechanism when a child's primary caregiver is inconsistent in meeting their needs. This can leave the child feeling insecure and fearful of abandonment. In adult relationships, people with an anxious attachment style may become overly dependent on their partner for validation and reassurance. How this plays out in dealing with infidelity is vital to understand how you can help yourself heal as well as your partner. Without an understanding of our attachment styles, relational recovery can be even harder due to the unseen forces working against the couple's attempt to communicate, lean in and display mutual empathy. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Nov 20, 202432 min

S1 Ep 26EP 26: Trauma Specialist Amanda Asproni on Understanding the Unfaithful Partner's Avoidance & Resistance

As a betrayed partner, have you ever wondered why your spouse or partner is so avoidant with you? Maybe you're an unfaithful and wonder why you have such significant trouble communicating your emotions, needs and overall feelings? Today on the podcast, trauma expert Amanda Asproni and I discuss two of the most complex attachment styles: the dismissive avoidant and the fearful avoidant and how they both became who they are. Not only do we discuss how they became who they are, but how the betrayed can navigate around these attachment styles and find hope, healing and practical help to understand how they operate. When dealing with infidelity it's vital we have a grasp of both our own attachment style as well as our partners AND how those styles interact. How did we become so avoidant or anxious? Was this attachment style modeled for us by our parents or care givers? Where do we find expert help and a safe approach to try and save our families and marriages? While avoidance can frustrate and isolate the betrayed partner, there are ways to engage the dismissive avoidant (DA) as well as the fearful avoidant (FA) that can create tangible forward progress and hope. It's not as hopeless as it feels or seems and today you'll find a light within what I'm sure feels like a never ending tunnel of darkness and despair. Amanda's journey into the field of complex trauma probably began in a similar place to where you're finding yourself right now. Her life brought her to a place full of despair, confusion and suffering. Amanda's journey into the field of complex trauma began right where many of you are right now, at the beginning. Experience taught her that the that path to healing the myriad and various aspects of complex trauma is not only long, but also daunting at times. Specialized professional help from practitioners with training to treat the complexity that is complex developmental and relationship trauma is critical to success. Her personal story makes her relatable and empathetic to her clients pain, confusion and the arduous road that coins recovery. Treating complex trauma is also about identifying the underlying root issues such as betrayal trauma, childhood sexual abuse, intimacy disorders, attachment disturbances and unresolved dysfunctional family of origin patterns. You can find more about Amanda Asproni here: https://www.healingaffairscounseling.com/about/ ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Nov 9, 202434 min

S1 Ep 25EP 25: Dr. Jill Manning Discusses the Effect of Snooping on the Betrayed & How to Live Above Suspicion

If you're an unfaithful spouse, let me ask you a question that will define your recovery work: Are You Living Above Suspicion? If not, why? How can we expect the betrayed partner to trust us, lean into us, move towards us or even give us their heart again if we're not committed to living above suspicion? If you're a betrayed, is your partner committed to living above suspicion? Or, do you feel like you constantly have to search for information and details. Maybe you're in a situation where the only information you have found is the information you have discovered? Today, Dr. Jill Manning and I discuss snooping and it's effects upon both the betrayed and the marriage or relationship. It's normal to snoop. Sometimes snooping reveals information that the betrayed wouldn't have discovered otherwise. But is it healthy? Is it necessary? You will be surprised to hear Dr. Manning discuss the reasons for and against snooping while also discussing what to do instead of snooping. While a controversial topic, as usual Dr. Manning shares helpful and soothing insight to those who are walking through one of the darkest tunnels of their life hoping to find light and a survival strategy. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Oct 30, 202439 min

S1 Ep 24EP 24: Michael Webb and Samuel Discuss Infidelity, Betrayal Trauma and Self-Compassion

Today on the podcast I discuss Infidelity, Betrayal Trauma and Self-Compassion with frequent guest clinician and trauma expert Michael Webb. For decades it's been known that shameful people do shameful things and commit heinously shameful acts. But how do we heal the shame while also owning our behavior and destructive choices as unfaithful spouses? How do we show remorse and empathy to our betrayed partners or spouses while also showing much needed empathy to ourselves? And....why do we still deserve self-compassion even though we're an unfaithful? Better yet, how can the betrayed find self-compassion for themselves while trying to heal from some of the most painful wounds they've ever known as human beings, let alone spouses of unfaithful? While it can seem messy, complicated and downright confusing, Michael and I talk through what self-compassion has meant for myself as well as Michael in his long time journey of healing from abuse, childhood trauma and relational challenges. Today's conversation is not just for unfaithful but also betrayed partners looking to heal and start a new chapter of their own. Michael has centered his work around trauma, addiction, attachment struggles and OCD due to the fact that he has identified with and experienced this sort of healing himself. Michael has further noted that complex trauma, attachment difficulties, addiction and OCD often cause chronic emotional dysregulation. Additionally, persistent negative beliefs about oneself, God, karma or others make healing feel unreachable at times and as though life has very little meaning, joy or fulfillment. Helping people find freedom and start living is the passion that fuels both his work and calling since he believes people are built to be self-healing and self-regulating. Michael also believes that therapy is a way of cleaning emotional wounds so that the natural healing ability of the mind can work. He uses advanced techniques and equipment to increase the speed and depth of healing and personal growth. His therapeutic techniques include Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Ego State Therapy, CBT and Revisioning. For more help from Michael or Sam please leave a comment here or reach out to Sam at [email protected] ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Oct 11, 202445 min

S1 Ep 23EP 23: Expert Interview with Tyler Patrick: How and Why Did We Become So Avoidant in our Relationships?

Are you an avoidant? Are you married to one? If you're married to an avoidant, you're probably frustrated as all get out with them, unless you too are an avoidant? If you're an avoidant you might be wondering what all the fuss is about and why is everyone making such a big deal about it? So what, you avoid conflict and shy away from confrontation and intimacy, what's the issue? Well, today I've invited my good friend and expert Tyler Patrick to talk about his own avoidance and how he helps both men and women deal with avoidance and quite possibly the avoidance of their partner. The reality is, no one just wakes up one day and is avoidant. We learn to avoid. Some of us cope with life, pressures, pain, responsibility and intense emotions by avoiding. Often times we avoid because we had to growing up due to developmental trauma or outright abuse. We learned to avoid in an effort to make sense of our life or survive awful circumstances, pain and trauma. I'm certainly not making excuses to justify avoidance in our own life or our partners, but if we don't understand where avoidance comes from, how can we heal and find freedom? How can we move them or ourselves closer towards not only secure attachment but better communication in our most closest relationships? Today begins a journey into the heart and mind of the avoidant. I hope you find healing and insight into either your own avoidance or your partners. For more help reach out to [email protected]. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Sep 7, 202439 min

S1 Ep 22EP 22: Understanding the Inner Child, Infidelity & Problematic Sexual Behaviors with Eddie Capparucci PhD

For decades the 'inner child' has been a topic of confusion and misunderstanding as it relates to infidelity, problematic sexual behaviors and restoring both marriages and individuals. What actually is the inner child? Can I, an unfaithful, blame my inner child for my choices and affair(s)? Don't I have power over my own choices? Is the 'inner child' just an excuse for my affair or addiction? Today Dr. Eddie Capparucci and I discuss the answers to these questions while validating both the pain of the betrayed and the confusion of the unfaithful. I'm confident both unfaithful and betrayed partners alike will feel not only validated but safe by Eddie's heart and approach to both infidelity, trauma and long term sobriety. Eddie Capparucci, Ph.D., LPC, C-CSAS, CPCS, specializes in treating Problematic Sexual Behaviors including pornography. Among his many clients, have been professional athletes including NFL and MLB players and television personalities. Dr. Capparucci is the creator of the unique Inner Child Model for the treatment of Problematic Sexual Behaviors. Learn more at www.innerchild-sexaddiction.com. He believes at the heart of most Problematic Sexual Behaviors are unresolved childhood pain points. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Sep 7, 202440 min

EP 21: Why the Betrayed and Unfaithful Need to Know 'The Why' of the Affair: Interview with an Expert

Understanding 'the why' of the affair is vital for a variety of reasons including but not limited to relapse prevention, safety for the betrayed and long term healing for both parties. If an unfaithful doesn't know why they had an affair or acted our, how can they expect to prevent it from happening again in the future? How can they assure their partner they'll never do it again when they were never supposed to do it in the first place and still don't know how to prevent the same circumstances from happening which led to the affair or addiction? It's a common choice of the unfaithful to just want to 'put it behind us' only to realize our betrayed partners don't feel safe, don't want to be vulnerable and don't want to take our word for it that we have it all figured out and we just won't do it again. Discovering why we have affairs or addictions is critical to finding healing, safety and for those who struggle with addiction, sobriety. Without an understanding of why the affair happened outside of our own minds and reasonings, we're doomed to repeat the behavior and run the risk of losing our families or partners. Today, a frequent contributor and expert, Amanda Asproni comes into the podcast to share her clinical insight into why it's vital to know the why of the affair(s) and how both parties can do work to discover either their own or their partner's 'why' of the affair. ------ Sam's Healing Podcast is brought to you by one of infidelity recovery's most prominent and gifted influencers and YouTuber. For 15 years, Samuel has been online as one of the the leading spokespersons for healing and recovery of both betrayed and unfaithful spouses. After more than a decade of blogging and filming under one of the betrayal trauma's founding fathers, famed clinician Rick Reynolds of affairrecovery.com, Sam has ventured out to pursue, create and live out his lifelong vision and passion for healing those touched by the trauma of infidelity. Through his new podcast and YouTube channel Samuel will continue to bring his own personal experiences with infidelity recovery along with delivering the most current and up-to-date clinical wisdom and healing modalities for recovery after an affair. Sam will also be expanding into the other critical areas of developing healthy relationships such as emotional and sexual connection, the impact of childhood sexual abuse and dysfunctional patterns of relating on marital intimacy, problematic communication patterns, complex, attachment and intergenerational trauma, compulsive sexual behavior, boundaries and the importance of inner-child healing work. Reach out to contact Samuel for personal coaching sessions at [email protected].

Sep 7, 202429 min