Navigating from Isolation to Intimacy (with Bret Marshall)

04/16/25 • 35 min

In this episode, I chat with Bret Marshall about his incredible journey of faith and personal transformation. Bret opens up about his struggles with emotional expression and sexual sin, and how these challenges impacted his relationships, especially with his wife, Tena. He shares the pivotal moments that led to his healing, including a transformative intensive experience through a past partnership between Be Broken and the Navigators ministry organization. Bret highlights the ABC’s of emotional health: Acceptance, Belonging, and Connection.

Bret also emphasizes the need for personal vulnerability, authentic connections, and creating safe spaces for men to share their full stories. His own story is an incredible reminder of the transformative power of God’s presence in our lives.

Learn more about Bret on his YouTube channel: @whylivetoday.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

Bret Marshall's journey of faith and personal transformation.
The significance of being known and sharing personal stories.
Challenges faced in relationships, particularly with a spouse.
The importance of creating safe environments for men to share their experiences.
Emotional suppression and its impact on personal well-being.
The role of communication in fostering intimacy and connection in relationships.
The necessity of vulnerability and honesty in personal and spiritual growth.
Building supportive relationships with mentors and peers for spiritual development.
Encouragement for those struggling with hidden aspects of their lives to seek help and support.

More Resources:

Gateway to Freedom 3-Day Intensive for Men
Mere Christianity* by C.S. Lewis
Find a Group

Related Podcasts:

*This is an affiliate link. Be Broken may earn referral fees on purchases through this link.

----------

Please rate and review our podcast: Apple Podcasts

Learn more about Bret on his YouTube channel: @whylivetoday.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

Bret Marshall's journey of faith and personal transformation.
The significance of being known and sharing personal stories.
Challenges faced in relationships, particularly with a spouse.
The importance of creating safe environments for men to share their experiences.
Emotional suppression and its impact on personal well-being.
The role of communication in fostering intimacy and connection in relationships.
The necessity of vulnerability and honesty in personal and spiritual growth.
Building supportive relationships with mentors and peers for spiritual development.
Encouragement for those struggling with hidden aspects of their lives to seek help and support.

More Resources:

Gateway to Freedom 3-Day Intensive for Men
Mere Christianity* by C.S. Lewis
Find a Group

Related Podcasts:

*This is an affiliate link. Be Broken may earn referral fees on purchases through this link.

----------

Please rate and review our podcast: Apple Podcasts

Previous Episode

The Deep-Rooted Marriage: Cultivating Intimacy, Healing, and Delight

In this episode, I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Steve Call, a clinical psychologist and co-author with Dr. Dan Allender of The Deep Rooted Marriage: Cultivating Intimacy, Healing, and Delight*. We dive into the book's themes, focusing on how past traumas influence present marital conflicts and how to grow in emotional understanding and intimacy. Dr. Call shares his personal marriage journey, emphasizing the importance of awareness and curiosity in relationships.

We discuss practical steps for couples to cultivate awareness, the role of play in healing, and strategies for managing triggers. Dr. Call offers hope and resources for couples to nourish their relationships.

To learn more about Dr. Call’s resources and to get the book, visit TheReconnectInstitute.com.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

Discussion of the book "The Deep Rooted Marriage: Cultivating Intimacy, Healing, and Delight.*"
Exploration of how past experiences and traumas influence current marital conflicts.
Importance of cultivating awareness and curiosity in relationships.
The role of intensive counseling formats in addressing deep-rooted issues.
Strategies for couples to develop awareness during conflicts.
The significance of play in fostering connection and healing in marriage.
Addressing triggers and shame in relationships, particularly during recovery.
Practical strategies for emotional regulation and self-care during challenging moments.
The metaphor of soil amendments to illustrate the need for nurturing relationships.
Resources and support for couples seeking to deepen their connection and navigate challenges.

More Resources: