Advertise on podcast: Victorious Living Podcast with Crystal Ridlon, LPC – Faith-Based Counseling & Christian Healing

What Are You Used To? Have you ever stayed in a hotel with an air conditioner so loud that it sounded like a monster in the middle of the night? The first night, you barely sleep. By the third night, somehow, you’re sleeping through it. We humans have an incredible ability to adjust. But what happens when we get used to things that aren’t good for us? In this episode, I share how a noisy hotel air conditioner prompted me to consider what we learn to tolerate. Unhealthy habits, harmful relationships, the things we watch, and even the way we speak to ourselves can become so familiar that we stop noticing their impact. Getting used to something doesn’t mean it’s good for us. Sometimes, it simply means we’ve learned to endure it. Join me as we reflect on the importance of paying attention, inviting God to examine our hearts, and recognizing what may be quietly affecting our peace, faith, and well-being. Reflection: What have you gotten used to that God may be inviting you to address? Read more reflections at theflamewithin.me. #WhatAreYouUsedTo #TheFlameWithin #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndMentalHealth #SpiritualGrowth #HealthyBoundaries #BreakingUnhealthyHabits #RenewYourMind #ChristianCounselor #VictoriousLiving

Fear is something every one of us will face, but it doesn't have to control us. In this episode, we explore what the Bible teaches about overcoming fear, why Jesus repeatedly tells us, "Do not be afraid," and how we can grow in faith even when life feels uncertain. If you've been struggling with anxiety, worry, or fear of the unknown, this episode will encourage you to place your trust in the One who is always with you. 🎧 Listen now and be reminded that faith grows as we learn to trust God more deeply. #DoNotBeAfraid #OvercomingFear #FaithOverFear #Jesus #TrustGod #ChristianPodcast #BiblicalTruth #FaithJourney #HopeInChrist #PeaceOfGod #ChristianEncouragement #VictoriousLiving

Estrangement is one of the deepest forms of grief because the people you long for are still alive. In this episode, I share my personal journey through family estrangement, the complicated emotions that come with it, and how God has met me in the midst of the pain. I also explore estrangement from both the parent's perspective and the adult child's perspective, offering practical tools, biblical encouragement, and trauma-informed insights to help navigate these incredibly complex relationships. We'll talk about boundaries, forgiveness, grief, and the hope that healing is possible—even when reconciliation isn't. If you've ever wrestled with loving someone from a distance, this episode is for you. #FamilyEstrangement #ChristianCounseling #HealingJourney #Boundaries #GriefRecovery #FaithAndHealing #TraumaRecovery #EmotionalHealing #MentalHealth #ChristianPodcast #VictoriousLiving #HopeInChrist #Forgiveness #HealthyBoundaries #HealingIsPossible

Join Crystal Ridlon, MA, LCMHC, licensed Christian counselor and founder of Victorious Living Counseling, as she explores the beauty and biblical importance of intentional friendship. In this episode, Crystal reflects on a heartfelt conversation with her daughter about what makes people feel truly seen, known, and valued. Together, you'll discover how remembering the little things, investing in others with genuine care, and loving faithfully can strengthen relationships and reflect the heart of Christ. Hashtags: #IntentionalFriendship #BiblicalFriendship #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndFriendship #ChristianCounselor #VictoriousLiving #CrystalRidlon #MeaningfulRelationships #LoveOneAnother #EncourageOneAnother #ChristianLiving #FriendshipMatters #Proverbs1717 #HopeInChrist #FaithInAction

In this episode, Crystal explores a truth that is often overlooked in both the church and everyday life: you have to feel it to heal it. Many of us have been taught to ignore, suppress, minimize, or spiritualize our emotions rather than truly acknowledge them. We tell ourselves to "just move on," "have more faith," or "focus on the positive," while carrying unresolved pain beneath the surface. Drawing from both biblical truth and trauma-informed therapy, Crystal discusses how healing begins when we allow ourselves to honestly recognize our emotions and bring them into the presence of God. She explores the connection between emotional avoidance, anxiety, trauma, grief, and spiritual growth, while offering practical encouragement for those struggling to face difficult feelings. God is not intimidated by your emotions. He created them. Throughout Scripture, we see people crying out in sorrow, anger, fear, confusion, and despair—and finding God's presence in the midst of it all. If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, numb, or afraid to face your pain, this episode offers hope, validation, and a reminder that healing doesn't come from avoiding our wounds. Healing begins when we bring them into the light. Because sometimes the very thing we're trying hardest not to feel is the thing God wants to heal.

In this special episode, Crystal reads her open letter written in response to the recent Southern Baptist Convention vote regarding women in ministry. Written from the perspective of a lifelong Southern Baptist, Christian counselor, and survivor of spiritual abuse, this letter is addressed to every woman who has ever questioned whether her voice, gifts, or calling matter in the Kingdom of God. With honesty, compassion, and biblical encouragement, Crystal shares a message of hope, dignity, and purpose for women navigating disappointment, confusion, or discouragement in the wake of the SBC decision. No matter what any vote may say, your worth was settled at the cross, your purpose was established by God, and your voice still matters.

Podcast Episode Summary – Courage in the Hard Places This episode explores one of the most powerful truths in counseling and spiritual growth: courage rarely feels comfortable. Courage is not the absence of fear but the decision to step into difficult places with faith, honesty, and a willing heart. From childhood to adulthood, life presents moments that stretch us—learning new skills, entering unfamiliar spaces, facing painful experiences, or setting necessary boundaries. These moments form the foundation of who we become and who God is calling us to be. As we grow older, challenges often feel heavier, shaped by trauma, loss, and hard seasons. Yet the truth remains unchanged:Courage develops when we face our fears rather than avoid them. This episode highlights: How speaking truth, setting boundaries, and using self-control builds courage Why shrinking ourselves to avoid conflict keeps us stuck How God empowers us in our weakness Why therapy, healing, and spiritual growth require brave choices How fear can become a lifelong “thorn,” yet still a place where God’s strength shines Listeners are reminded that Scripture repeatedly calls us to courage: Joshua 1:9 – Be strong and courageous Psalm 27:1 – The Lord is my light and salvation 2 Timothy 1:7 – God has not given us a spirit of fear Proverbs 28:1 – The righteous are bold as a lion 1 Corinthians 16:13 – Stand firm and be strong Even in seasons of weakness, God’s grace is enough. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 12:7–10, our weakness becomes the place where Christ’s power rests on us. The heart of the episode:God does not call us to fear—He calls us to freedom. And freedom often begins with one brave decision at a time.

A Reflection on My Assault in Australia and the Gift Hidden Inside the Pain This week on the podcast, I shared one of the hardest and most vulnerable parts of my story. While traveling in Australia, I experienced an assault that shook me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It was unexpected. It was traumatic. And for a moment, it brought my life to a halt. But as I continue to heal, something surprising has taken root inside of me. I realized that I get to live my life… I do not have to live my life.There is a world of difference between the two. In the quiet moments that followed the assault, when the dizziness, headaches, and fear would come in waves, I began to see life with new clarity. Every morning I wake up is a gift. Every moment with my husband, my children, and my loved ones is a treasure. Every chance to do the work God called me to do is a privilege not everyone receives. I never expected a traumatic event to teach me gratitude.I never expected fear to lead me back to faith.I never expected pain to remind me of purpose. Yet here I am, learning that sometimes the most profound truths come wrapped in the most unwelcome moments. Life is not guaranteed.Breath is not guaranteed.Our next moment is not guaranteed. But what is guaranteed is the goodness of God, His presence in the rubble, and His ability to bring something meaningful out of the hardest chapters we never saw coming. If you have ever walked through something that made you question everything, my prayer is that this episode brings you comfort, validation, and hope. You are not alone. And your life—no matter how messy or painful it feels—is still a gift. 🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear more of the story, the healing, and the unexpected clarity that came from a moment that should have broken me but instead awakened me.

n this podcast, Crystal Ridlon, a licensed professional counselor, explores the effectiveness of virtual therapy compared to in-person therapy. She discusses the importance of the therapeutic relationship, the role of trust, and the benefits of virtual therapy, including accessibility and comfort. Crystal emphasizes that the key to effective therapy lies in the connection between the therapist and the client, regardless of the medium. She also addresses when virtual therapy may not be ideal and provides practical tips for setting up a conducive environment for virtual sessions. Ultimately, she encourages listeners to embrace virtual therapy as a valuable option for mental health care.

In today's podcast we talk about politics. That's right politics. Don't run away scared, this is a conversation about politics that you won't want to miss. Today's topic is a breath of fresh air, and a new more Christ-like and peaceful way to view and respond to the political tension in our nation that is causing hatred and division. If you are tired of the division and being caught up in a political battlefield; Join the party of "Christians" and "Americans". Listen to learn all about it. #peace #politicalpeace #goodmentalhealth #Christian

SummaryIn this episode of the Victorious Living Christian Counseling Podcast, Crystal Ridlon LPC discusses the concept of projection in relationships, particularly within a Christian context. She explains how projection can manifest in various forms, such as triangulation and emotional venting, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing these behaviors to maintain healthy relationships. Crystal offers practical strategies for setting boundaries, self-soothing, and finding peace in Christ, encouraging listeners to cultivate awareness and implement healthy communication practices.Takeaways Projection is a psychological defense mechanism.Triangulation is a damaging relationship dynamic.Healthy relationships require mutual communication.Self-soothing is essential before reaching out to others.Setting boundaries is crucial for emotional well-being.Projection can lead to feelings of guilt and confusion.Recognizing projection helps in managing relationships.Healthy conversations should be meaningful and reciprocal.Jesus modeled healthy boundaries in relationships.Peace in relationships starts with individual self-awareness. Key Concepts "Projection is the thief of joy.""Projection is draining and overwhelming.""We must learn to self-soothe.""Healthy conversations are meaningful.""Healthy relationships are filled with joy.""We need to guard our heart.""Peace starts in you."

Have you ever experienced conflict in a relationship? Of course you have, because we all experience conflict in relationships. This is a normal part of life. Relationships can be messy, they can be difficult sometimes, they can be painful, but with the right tools, our relationships can, in fact, be healing, joyful, and places that make a life worth living. In today's podcast, we talk about managing relationships and what to do when we find ourselves being treated by other people. This can be very difficult, but it is important to remember that most often when someone is treating you poorly, it's not about you, it's about them. When true people treat you poorly. It's usually because of their unmanaged pain, anger, worldview, and hurt. This has been a healing lesson for me in my walk and in my relationships. Listen and share about how to maintain healthy relationships. In today's podcast we discuss 6 keys to better management of the relationships that are most important to you. In addition, we discuss thoughts from the therapy room and how I "the therapist" work to manage relationships and teach about relationships in therapy. God Bless! Crystal Ridlon, LMHC, LPC

There are no hopeless situations, only people who've become hopeless. This is key to remember when walking through hardships and trials. When clients come to me, oftentimes they have grown hopeless and we work together to combat the lies of the enemy with God's truths, this helps them rediscover their hope. The Bible does not sugar coat suffering, it is filled with stories of despair and suffering. The Bible models how God uses stories of despair and turns them into hope and times of preparation. Check out this podcast if you need to hear from God if you need a reminder of the hope of Christ.

Easter is a time of rejoicing because the grave couldn't hold Jesus in the ground. Yet, Good Friday was hopeless, sad, dark, awful, filled with desperation, and anguish for those who loved Jesus: His mother, friends, and followers. Today's podcast discusses the hope of Easter through the lens of seeing how the joy came after such a dark and traumatic time. As a counselor, I explain PTSD trauma symptoms from a therapist's perspective. This episode reveals the joy that will come after a time of trial and hardship if we maintain our focus on God and never lose hope in God's promises. 2 Peter 1:19

Happy Father’s Day! Father’s are important to the healthy upbringing of children and loving father’s make a huge difference in our children’s lives! Sadly, this is not the story for the majority of us. Many of our father’s have hurt us, rejected us, or neglected us. How do we heal from the wounds our earthly father’s left us with? God is our Heavenly Father and because of His unconditional and perfect love, healing is not only a dream, but a promise to those who love and surrender their heart to Him! Listen to today‘a podcast to learn how to overcome and find victory in your life through Christ! God loves you! Happy Father’s Day! Blessings, Crystal