Ep.55 Connection Over Shame: Talking to Kids about Sex and Porn with Kristen Whitmore

In this episode of Faith & Feels, I sit down with Kristen Whitmore for a heartfelt conversation about parenting, sexuality, pornography, and the importance of creating safe and honest conversations with our children. Together, we explore why parents play such an important role in initiating these discussions, navigating the awkwardness that can come with them, and helping children develop healthy understanding and connection rather than shame.We also talk about personal experiences, sexual brokenness, emotional safety, and the impact shame can have on both parents and children. Kristen and I discuss the importance of understanding trauma, fostering emotional connection within families and relationships, and equipping kids to navigate today’s culture with wisdom, honesty, and grace.Throughout the episode, we emphasize that parents do not need to approach these conversations perfectly—just intentionally, openly, and with compassion. We also reflect on the role of faith, community, and the church in supporting families through these often difficult but deeply important conversations.Recommended Resources:www.protectyoungeyes.comhttp://www.youtube.com/@WithThePerryshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sex-sexual-trauma-and-gods-design-with-dr-juli-slattery/id1458672189?i=1000761065464"Sex, Sexual Trauma, and God's Design with Dr.Julie" Podcast*For info on Kristen Whitmore, visit www.renewchurchoc.comwww.renewchurchoc.com/meet-the-staffBooks to Read with Kids on Sex, Porn, Our Bodies:Good Pictures Bad Pictures by Kristen Jenson7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality by Luke GilkersonGod Made All of Me by Justin and Lindsey Holcomb*Pixabay Music: "In Plus Music" and "Viacheslavstarostin"Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Faith in Fields01:39 The Importance of Open Conversations about Sexuality04:00 Personal Experiences with Sexual Education09:19 Establishing a Safe Space for Discussions15:35 Navigating Awkwardness in Conversations21:24 Addressing Pornography and Its Impact25:17 Understanding Shame and Vulnerability28:12 Navigating Shame in Parenting and Sexuality30:03 Exploring Sexual Trauma and God's Design34:51 Understanding Sexual Brokenness in Youth38:15 Unmet Sexual Needs and Masculinity42:07 The Importance of Emotional Connection46:55 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations51:03 Finding Community and Support in the Church