Every month we bring your way ideas and information on resources, media, or tools to be inspirational, motivating, or helpful in your recovery journey.
A great place for getting info and input is through the world of podcasts. This month I am highlighting two podcasts created by Nate Larkin and his organization, Samson Society.
Larkin is a ministry leader, author, and speaker. While serving as a pastor he became addicted to pornography and sex. While desperately committed to preserving his reputation, he was also driven to act in ways contrary to his own values and his work of pastoring – living a double life. After years of living this compartmentalized existence, Larkin left his church hoping to save his reputation as his addiction behaviors had not yet been exposed. He finally hit bottom when his wife discovered the truth and told him she couldn’t continue living with his betrayal and lies.
He went into recovery and eventually started a ministry called Samson Society, described as a “place where men can come and be openly accountable with one another while biblically seeking the road to recovery.” You can learn more about Larkin by viewing a short video on the I Am Second website where he tells his story. The podcasts and ministry organization are faith based with a definite Christian framework. However, much of what he talks about is relatable and relevant to recovery even if one does not embrace a Christian perspective.
One of his podcasts is called Walking Lessons and can be found on the iTunes store for free. This is a 16-session class Larkin presents that addresses what he describes as “fundamental practicalities…for a Christian addict in recovery.” Not specific to sex addiction, each podcast revolves around themes of Recovery and the 12 Steps – such as denial, powerlessness, surrender, resentment, codependency, making amends, transformation, and maintenance. Presented in a teaching format, he is comfortable to listen to, espousing the value of authenticity and being real.
The other podcast is more of a talk show format and more specific to sex addiction. Pirate Monk podcast is produced by members of the Samson Society. Fun and casual bantering between Nate Larkin, producer Mark Whitlock, Newton Dominey, Mondo Grimes, and Aaron Porter open the show in conversation. Larkin shares his thoughts and they do interviews with other guests bringing information and expertise on various topics related to sex addiction, compulsive sexuality, and recovery. The chemistry between “the guys” is appealing and they cover important and relevant topics.
I suggest you tune in to these podcasts and give them a listen. One of my clients gives it a ringing endorsement describing Walking Lessons as the “best series he has listened to!”
Written by Cheryl Schenck LPC, CSAT