EP. 174 Learning to Listen: Essential Skills for Every Counselor W/Author Joseph Hussung

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Mike sits down with Joseph Hussung, the Director of Ministry Partnerships and Recruitment at Fieldstone Counseling, to discuss his new book, 'Learning to Listen.' Released in late March, the book is a significant contribution to the biblical counseling community. Hussung explains his journey, professional background, and motivations for writing the book. The conversation delves into the book's structure, emphasizing the importance of listening, empathy, and connecting with others in a counseling setting. Key themes include the purpose, posture, and practicalities of listening, along with overcoming sin-induced barriers. Hussung also introduces his GRACE acronym—Gaze, Relax, Align, Connect, Engage—as a guideline for effective listening. He highlights practical ways to close the gaps in context, values, and perspectives between counselors and counselees. The episode concludes with tips for purchasing the book and a call for listeners to send in future topics for discussion.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:27 Special Guest Introduction: Joseph Hussung
01:05 Joseph's Background and Experience
02:17 The Inspiration Behind 'Learning to Listen'
03:59 Book Structure: Purpose, Posture, and Practice of Listening
05:50 Connecting Love, Empathy, and Listening
08:09 The Impact of Sin on Listening
11:18 Jesus' Heart and Our Heart in Listening
11:53 Practical Listening Skills: The GRACE Acronym
14:39 Addressing Gaps in Listening
18:54 Active Listening and Responding
25:51 Conclusion and Book Promotion

Episode Mentions
Learning to Listen Book
Fieldstone Counseling