How To Reclaim Your Sexual Identity After Trauma | Sex, Consent & Healing With Matthew Riven

In this episode, Michael Unbroken sits down with kink and sexuality expert Matthew Riven to unpack how BDSM, kink, and conscious sexuality can become powerful tools for healing childhood trauma, religious shame, and sexual guilt. You will learn how consent, boundaries, and agency in the bedroom can help you reclaim your body, rebuild self‑trust, and create safer, more authentic relationships as an adult survivor.We explore the difference between sex, sexuality, and kink, why your “taboo” desires are often wired to your nervous system, and how bringing them above the table with communication can be deeply healing instead of destructive. Matthew shares how conscious kink, structure, and negotiation give trauma survivors a safe container to be seen, ask for what they want, and slowly release the shame they were taught as kids.If you grew up with sexual abuse, purity culture, or a home where sex was never talked about, this conversation will help you understand why you struggle with intimacy, trust, and desire – and what to do about it. We talk PTSD, body agency, consent regret, and how to move from people‑pleasing and dissociation into grounded, empowered choice in your relationships and sex life.Timestamps:00:00 Why kink and sexuality matter for trauma healing06:00 Michael’s story: childhood sexual abuse, Mormonism, and confusion about sex16:00 What kink really is (and why shame makes it feel “wrong”)19:00 How BDSM rules, structure, and consent create safety01:08:00 “Fuck yes, yes, maybe, no, fuck no” – understanding consent and boundariesKeywords (for SEO): trauma healing, childhood sexual abuse, religious trauma, purity culture, kink, BDSM, conscious kink, sexuality, sexual shame, sexual guilt, consent, boundaries, agency, body agency, PTSD, intimacy, relationships, Michael Unbroken, Matthew Riven, Think Unbroken podcastIf someone searches “healing sexual shame,” do you want to rank more for “trauma recovery” or more for “kink and BDSM education”?Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Quit corporate, bet on yourself, and build a life you actually love. In this conversation, Michael Unbroken sits down with Angie Hawkins to break down exactly how she went from full blown anxiety attacks at the thought of quitting her 9–5 to creating a business and life on her own terms.You will learn:How to know when it is really time to leave corporate America (and when it is just escapism).The mindset shift Angie used to become the kind of person who quits their job and starts a business.Why success is never guaranteed, but struggle is, and how to keep going when everything feels like it is failing.Practical strategies to build self belief, take scary action, and handle the consequences without falling apart.What to do when your launch flops, your plans blow up, or your first attempts get almost no results.If you feel stuck in a job you hate, are terrified to take the leap, or keep getting knocked down as an entrepreneur, this episode will give you real talk, real examples, and simple steps to move forward today.Timestamps:00:00 Leaving corporate America and facing fear05:00 Building self belief after anxiety and panic15:00 Why struggle is guaranteed and success is not25:00 Failing forward in business and trying again35:00 How to keep going when you want to quitKeywords: quit corporate America, leave your 9–5, how to believe in yourself, entrepreneurial mindset, overcoming fear, self belief, failing forward, Michael Unbroken podcast, Angie Hawkins interview, how to start your own business, motivational podcast, mental health and entrepreneurship.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Do you feel like you keep dating the same person in a different body, repeating painful patterns you swore you were done with ? In this raw conversation, I sit down with dating and attachment expert Drea Renee to talk about how childhood trauma, anxious attachment, and modern dating culture collide to shape your love life today. We break down ghosting, hookup culture, co‑regulation, and why you might be dating from your 7‑year‑old self instead of your adult self, and what it actually takes to build a secure, healthy relationship that lasts.If you grew up in chaos, had a parent leave, or feel “too much” and dysregulated in relationships, this episode will show you that you are not broken and that there is a clear path to healing, accountability, and better love. You will learn practical tools for framing hard conversations, knowing when to walk away, and how to stop blaming everyone else and finally start doing your own work.Timestamps:00:00 Intro: Why dating feels so broken today00:28 Imagining a safe, secure relationship that lasts01:26 Drea’s story: Dad leaving, early trauma, and unconscious dating03:28 Michael’s “aha” moment: Realizing “this is a me problem”42:20 How to stay in your adult self during conflict42:48 Framing hard conversations without blaming your partner44:23 What to do when one partner is unwilling to do the work44:48 When to double down vs hit the eject button on a relationshipIn this episode we cover:How childhood trauma and attachment wounds shape your dating choicesWhat anxious attachment looks like in real‑life relationshipsWhy ghosting, apps, and hookup culture keep you stuck in old patternsHow to use co‑regulation and framing to create safety in conflictWhen to apologize, repair, and try again vs when it is time to walk awayIf you are ready to stop dating your trauma and start creating secure, healthy love, this conversation is for you.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Every day you have the power to rebuild your life, but sometimes it takes hitting rock bottom, dropping the mask, and telling the truth about who you really are. In this raw and powerful conversation, Michael Unbroken sits down with author and entrepreneur Allie Bloyd to talk about burning your life down to the studs and rebuilding it with radical honesty, faith, and courage.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Allie went from “performing fine” to confronting childhood trauma, sexual assault, addiction, and generational patterns she had buried for decades.Why high achievers can look “successful” on the outside while feeling completely broken and lost on the inside.How radical honesty with yourself and others becomes the doorway to real healing, self-worth, and spiritual growth.The role of writing, storytelling, and even AI in triggering her deepest season of self-discovery and life transition.Why business success built on people-pleasing and performance will eventually collapse if you never deal with the truth of who you are.We also dive into:Faith, identity, and the “dark night of the soul” that often follows public success.Marriage, parenting, and the cost of living out of alignment with your true self.Using rock bottom as a catalyst to become a new version of you instead of staying stuck in shame.If you’ve ever looked “put together” while secretly falling apart, this episode will give you language, hope, and next steps to begin your own Unbroken journey.Timestamps (approx):00:00 – Why real change often requires rock bottom01:20 – Allie’s “fine” persona and the moment the mask cracked03:40 – Trauma, self-worth, and pretending everything is okay05:20 – Success, burnout, and the second dark night of the soul06:30 – Business, marriage, and realizing you built a life from trauma responses08:10 – Obsessive drive, entrepreneurship, and self-medication with drugs, alcohol, and sexConnect with Allie Bloyd:Website: alibloyd.comSocial: @alibloydmediaBook series and updates: choosemeseries.comListen to more episodes and get show notes: thinkunbrokenpodcast.comIf this episode helped you, make sure to:Subscribe for more real, unfiltered conversations on healing, trauma, and transformationComment “UNBROKEN” if you’re ready to stop pretending and start telling the truthShare this with a friend who looks “fine” but might be silently struggling insideAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Michael Unbroken sits down with coach and former accountant Karms Fung, who spent 15 years climbing the corporate ladder, chasing titles, respect, and external validation before realizing that “success without fulfillment is the ultimate failure,” a lesson she took to heart after a Tony Robbins event. You will hear how she went from feeling second best in her family, overworking to prove her worth, moving to Australia, excelling at math and accounting, and then finally admitting, “I don’t want to do this until I’m 65.”Karms shares the honest truth about:Growing up feeling unwanted as a girl in a traditional Asian culture and deciding to outwork everyone.Building a 15–year corporate accounting career for status, security, and approval, only to end up burned out and empty.Hitting a breaking point, drifting, binging Netflix, and realizing that going back to a “safe” job might be worse than feeling lost.Her rule for only applying to jobs she would do even without getting paid, and how that led to a stepping stone role that unlocked her passion.Discovering her love for teaching growth mindset, leading teams, and ultimately leaving corporate to start a coaching business and build real community.If you feel stuck in a job you hate, scared to walk away from the salary, title, and identity you have built, this video will give you the mindset shifts, questions, and real stories you need to start moving toward a life that actually feels meaningful.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Unlock the true power of vulnerability—Micah LaCerte shares his harrowing journey through childhood abuse and how healing became his greatest strength. Discover how embracing raw truth can break the cycle of shame and set you free, no matter what trauma you've carried. If you’ve ever felt trapped by secrets or shame, this episode will show you that your story is your superpower.Micah, a former abuse survivor turned advocate and author, reveals the raw, unfiltered steps to healing that nearly destroyed him—and then rebuilt him into a force for change. You’ll learn how childhood trauma manifests in adulthood, how silence can destroy, and the transformative power of sharing your truth. We break down proven frameworks for overcoming shame, forgiving those who hurt us, and reclaiming your life.Key insights include:The importance of safe spaces and support systems in healingThe long, courageous process of disclosure and forgivenessHow faith, faithfulness, and self-compassion are critical to recoveryPractical steps to confront your own story, even when terror and shame hold you backThe role of healing in reclaiming masculinity and emotional strengthThis episode isn’t just for survivors—it’s a call to action for anyone tired of living under the weight of secrecy. Micah’s story illustrates that healing isn’t linear, but it’s always possible—and the moment you decide to confront your pain, life begins to change. The courage to tell your story is also the courage to live free.Perfect for men and women facing their own battles with shame, loss, or trauma, or for loved ones supporting someone in this journey. If you’re ready to unlock the power of vulnerability, heal your wounds, and step into your purpose, this episode is your invitation. Because being unbroken isn’t about never breaking—it's about choosing to heal and rise stronger than ever.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Survived childhood trauma? Ready to thrive, find love, and build a life you’re proud of? Join renowned trauma coach Michael Anthony’s free group. https://www.skool.com/think-unbroken-5756/about?ref=deff9f4cffd7469182949355dd1c1a1eIn this engaging conversation, Michael Unbroken and Jarvis Leverson explore the concept of gamifying life to achieve personal success and happiness. They discuss the importance of daily habits, the five-star life framework, and the internal drive necessary for transformation. The dialogue delves into self-sabotage, accountability, and the significance of measuring progress against personal growth rather than external benchmarks. Jarvis shares insights from his journey, emphasizing the need for awareness and intentionality in pursuing a fulfilling life.TakeawaysGamifying life can lead to greater consistency and success.Success is determined by daily actions, not occasional efforts.Finding your internal fire is crucial for personal transformation.Self-sabotage often stems from hitting upper limits of success.Measuring progress against personal growth is essential for fulfillment.Creating a five-star life involves intentional daily actions.Awareness of self-sabotaging triggers is key to overcoming them.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken Connect with Jarvis Leverson:Website: https://www.themorninghero.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.morninghero/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jayfly22Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.morninghero/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Survived childhood trauma? Ready to thrive, find love, and build a life you’re proud of? Join renowned trauma coach Michael Anthony’s free group. https://www.skool.com/think-unbroken-5756/about?ref=deff9f4cffd7469182949355dd1c1a1eExplore the science and research behind brain health, mental health diagnostics, and personalized treatment approaches with Dr. Steve Rondeau. Discover how brain scans can revolutionize mental health treatment and understanding. In this episode, Michael speaks with Dr. Steve Rondeau and explores the profound impact of brain patterns, self-talk, and environment on mental health and personal growth. They discuss how understanding your brain’s wiring can lead to transformative life changes, emphasizing practical steps like brain scans, creating supportive ecosystems, and rethinking self-care.Key Topics:The difference between treating the story versus the brainThe role of objective data in mental health diagnosisHow brain scans are processed and interpretedThe impact of environment on brain healthTrauma, resilience, and brain patterns Brain patterns and their impact on behaviorThe role of environment in shaping self-talk and mental healthPractical steps for self-care and overcoming negative patterns************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken Connect with Steve Rondeau: Website: https://axoneegsolutions.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068808602146LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-steven-rondeau-148aa421/Amazon Link: https://mybook.to/ThinkLikeABrainAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Survived childhood trauma? Ready to thrive, find love, and build a life you’re proud of? Join renowned trauma coach Michael Anthony’s free group. https://www.skool.com/think-unbroken-5756/about?ref=deff9f4cffd7469182949355dd1c1a1eIn this conversation, Michael Unbroken and Megan Margherio explore the complexities of the healing journey, focusing on what comes after trauma. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from survival mode to embracing joy and self-discovery, the importance of mindfulness, and the role of the nervous system in processing emotions. Megan shares her personal experiences and insights on identity crises, the spiral of healing, and redefining achievement and rest. The discussion culminates in the introduction of Megan's memoir, 'Everwoven,' which addresses the aftermath of trauma and the journey toward reclaiming one's life.Takeaways:The healing journey includes understanding what's next after trauma.Survivors often struggle to let good back into their lives.Rebuilding self-worth requires starting from the ground up.There's a significant difference between feeling numb and feeling neutral.Mindfulness helps in staying present and aware of one's feelings.************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken Connect with Megan Margherio: Website: https://www.meganmargherio.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/megan_margherioYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@megan_margherioAmazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/author/megan_margherioAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Survived childhood trauma? Ready to thrive, find love, and build a life you’re proud of? Join renowned trauma coach Michael Anthony’s free group. https://www.skool.com/think-unbroken-5756/about?ref=deff9f4cffd7469182949355dd1c1a1eAre we more connected than ever—or more alone than ever before?In this powerful episode, Michael Unbroken sits down with connection expert and Friending founder Gabor Kadas to unpack the growing loneliness epidemic and what it’s really doing to our mental, emotional, and physical health.Despite constant access to social media, smartphones, and digital communication, millions of people feel isolated, disconnected, and afraid to build real relationships. So what went wrong? And more importantly—how do we fix it?In this conversation, Michael and Gabor break down the hidden psychological impact of technology, the illusion of online friendships, and why real-life connection is more important than ever in a world moving toward AI, remote work, and virtual living.You’ll learn why humans are biologically wired for in-person connection, how screen addiction is affecting our well-being, and practical ways to step outside your comfort zone to build meaningful friendships in real life.If you’ve ever felt lonely, disconnected, or stuck behind a screen—this episode is for you.In This Episode, We Discuss:Why loneliness is at an all-time highThe false sense of connection created by social mediaThe mental and physical health effects of isolationHow technology and remote work changed human relationshipsThe fear of rejection and how to overcome itSimple ways to meet people and build real friendshipsThe future of connection in an AI-driven world************* LINKS & RESOURCES *************Learn how to heal and overcome childhood trauma, narcissistic abuse, ptsd, cptsd, higher ACE scores, anxiety, depression, and mental health issues and illness. Learn tools that therapists, trauma coaches, mindset leaders, neuroscientists, and researchers use to help people heal and recover from mental health problems. Discover real and practical advice and guidance for how to understand and overcome childhood trauma, abuse, and narc abuse mental trauma. Heal your body and mind, stop limiting beliefs, end self-sabotage, and become the HERO of your own story. Join our FREE COMMUNITY as a member of the Unbroken Nation: https://www.thinkunbrokenacademy.com/share/AEGok414shubQSzq?utm_source=manual Download the first three chapters of the Award-Winning Book Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma: https://book.thinkunbroken.com/ Join the Think Unbroken Trauma Transformation Course: https://coaching.thinkunbroken.com/ @Michael Unbroken: https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken/ Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken Connect with Gabor Kadas:Website: https://friending.comGabor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaborkadas/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy