Courage and Healing: Confronting Generational Cycles of Mental Struggles with Toby Slough

How does a small Hawaiian fish and a depressive episode lead to healing? When the weight of anxiety began to press heavily on Toby’s shoulders he discovered that healing could start right in the family's heart. That journey led him to create a workshop to strengthen those pivotal connections, laying the foundation for this deeply personal episode. 

The small story of “Be a Goby” brings us into a larger story of vulnerability, resilience, and hope, reflecting on Pastor Toby Slough's journey through his own mental health struggles. His candid message that it's "okay to not be okay" resonates throughout our conversation, weaving together the theme of parental well-being and the emotional health of our children. This is a ‘must-share’ episode of Brave Men.

The narrative takes a tender turn as we unpack "Be a Goby," Pastor Toby's children's book written as a lighthouse for young minds battling loneliness and anxiety. The pages of this story extend beyond the book, offering a haven of confidence, courage, and compassion through its accompanying website.

Our producer Bryce joins me in this show for a look into the healing presence of God and how the love of others is a part of the process. I’ve been reflecting on the remarkable stories that fill this Brave Men podcast season. Stories that echo across generations, for our sons and daughters, grandchildren, spouses and loved ones. It really is about the journey of faith and courage and wisdom and finding Jesus in the midst of our worst moments. Hope!

In our final moments, Pastor Toby joins us to call upon bravery and courage in the face of life's challenges. We explore the transformative role of faith and mindset in shaping our futures, touching on how the teachings of Jesus and Paul can renew one's sense of self. The chapter closes with a prayer for bravery, an invitation to listeners to step into their destinies with boldness, breaking free from the cycles that have long held sway over their families. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a passage to God given empowerment for anyone ready to make those pivotal, life-altering decisions.

Subscribe to Brave Men — share it. Take a step with us into a future where every challenge is an opportunity for growth and every narrative is a testament to grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit to impute resilience into our hearts. Brave Men is a production of the Christian Men’s Network. Paul is the President of this global movement which can be found at CMN.men.

(00:00) Parents' Mental Health and Healing
(03:43) Be a Gobi
(08:28) Overcoming Fear and Anxiety
(20:41) Healing With Truth and Faith
(31:15) Family Identity and Mental Wellness Building
(44:46) Coaching, Shame, Help in the Church
(55:40) Embracing Bravery and Courage in Life