231. How Porn Impacts the Brain

Welcome to episode #231! 🎙️ Pure Victory Podcast: How Porn Impacts the Brain (Part 1 of Series)

Episode Summary:
In this eye-opening kickoff to a powerful new series, Braden takes us deep into the science of what porn actually does to our brains—and why understanding this is a crucial step toward breaking free.

We often hear about the spiritual or moral consequences of porn use, but this episode zooms in on something many people miss: the physiological side—specifically how porn rewires our brains, alters our decision-making, and even dulls our ability to enjoy real-life pleasures like friendships, hobbies, and intimacy.

🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Braden’s first experience with porn and the powerful chemical reaction it triggered in his body.
• How dopamine plays a key role in addiction—and how porn hijacks this God-designed brain chemical.
• Why porn leaves us chasing more extreme content over time, and how this mirrors drug addiction.
• How our brain’s “reward system” can get fried, making real life feel dull and disconnected.
• The link between porn and rising levels of depression, anxiety, and emotional numbness.
• What happens when our prefrontal cortex (the decision-making part of the brain) shrinks.
• Why many people feel "stuck" and out of control in their addiction—and how it's not just about willpower.

💡 Encouragement & Hope: You’re not broken beyond repair. God designed your brain with something called neuroplasticity—which means it can change and heal. Even though porn may have rewired your brain, recovery is absolutely possible. With awareness, community, behavioral changes, and spiritual support, you can build new neural pathways toward life-giving things.

🔧 Practical Takeaways:

• Start by cutting off easy access to porn—create “friction” to slow down impulsive behavior.
• Join an accountability group. You’re not meant to walk this road alone.
• Make space for life-giving habits like prayer, real relationships, and community.
• Know your triggers and create a game plan for dealing with them in healthy ways.

📣 Next Episode Sneak Peek:
Next time, Braden will explore how porn reshapes our views on sex and the opposite sex—and how that impacts our relationships, dating life, and culture at large. You won’t want to miss it.

🙏 Final Word:
This episode isn’t meant to shame—it’s meant to wake us up with compassion and clarity. There is freedom available. You’re not too far gone. With God’s help and the right tools, you can experience lasting change.

  Help Set People Free: Support the Podcast that Fights Porn Addiction

At Pure Victory Podcast, we believe in the power of God’s grace to heal and restore lives. Pornography addiction is a silent struggle for many, but with Christ, there is hope for freedom and transformation. Through biblically-based guidance, real-life testimonies, and expert advice, we’re helping individuals break free from the chains of addiction and walk in the fullness of God’s plan for their lives.

But we need your help to continue this vital work. Your donation will support the production of future episodes, reach more people with the life-changing message of freedom in Christ, and provide resources to those in need of healing.

Why Donate?

• Bring Hope to the Hurting: Your generosity will help us reach those who feel trapped and alone in their addiction, showing them the love, forgiveness, and freedom found in Christ.
• Provide Free Resources: The podcast is a free resource for anyone who struggles with porn addiction, so that all can hear the message of redemption and healing, no matter their circumstances.
• Support Christian Recovery: By giving, you’re supporting a Christ-centered approach to overcoming addiction—one that focuses on prayer, accountability, and spiritual renewal.

How You Can Help:

• One-Time Donation: Your one-time gift, no matter the size, will make a difference in someone’s life, helping us reach more people with the message of hope.
• Monthly Giving: Become a monthly supporter and help us provide ongoing encouragement and biblical wisdom to those who need it most.
• Spread the Word: Share the podcast with others, and encourage people to seek freedom through Christ. Your voice can help bring light to those in darkness.

Together, we can help people walk in victory over addiction and live the abundant life that God has called them to. Your donation makes this possible.

Donate Today

Thank you for partnering with us in this mission. Your generosity not only changes lives but also helps fulfill the biblical command to bear one another’s burdens and bring the love of Christ to a hurting world.

“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” — John 8:36

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Resources

Pure Freedom Community for men 18+

Pure Freedom Journey for men and women

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FamilyLife Canada: Resources and events to strengthen your marriage

Online marriage resources (FamilyLife Canada)

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Podcast Hosts

BRADEN HAFNER

Braden is the Regional Director in Alberta for FamilyLife Canada. He and his wife Kristen live in Edmonton, Alberta. He knows all too well the destruction that porn use and addiction can have, and now wants to see people experience freedom away from porn. Along with that he is passionate about seeing marriages grow and thrive, and helping couples move to a deeper oneness with one another and with God. FamilyLife Canada has a variety of resources and events to help you and your spouse take your marriage to the next level. See what would benefit you at www.familylifecanada.com