Being Human with Steve Cuss

Host Steve Cuss welcomes Ben Mandrell, former president of Lifeway Resources and current senior pastor at Bellevue Baptist Church, for a rich conversation on leadership,faith, and resilience when things are good or in flux. Ben shares candid reflections on navigating cultural shifts, organizational challenges, and the personal cost of leadership amid institutional changes. From closing bookstores at Lifeway to finding joy and playfulness even amid tragedy, his journey reveals how presence and discernment sustain both leaders and communities. Steve and Ben explore the power of daily spiritual practices and small acts of connection that strengthen our relationships with God and one another. Episode Resources: More about Ben Mandrell  Learn about Bellevue Baptist Church Read about Ben Mandrell's call to the Bellevue senior pastor role Read about the turbulent times at Lifeway Resources  Watch Rick Warren's address to the SBC in 2022  Listen to the sermons of Adrian Rogers Explore the work of Mark Batterson  Read Steve Cuss’ book: Managing Leadership Anxiety  Sign up for Steve’s Newsletter & Podcast Reminders: Capable Life Newsletter Join Steve at an upcoming intensive:  Capable Life Intensives Explore more CT with our free newsletters: christianitytoday.com/newsletters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Kyle Strobel, a professor of spiritual theology at Talbot Seminary, challenges the self-help approach to spirituality. He emphasizes the importance of genuine encounters with Christ over mere discipline, revealing how hidden dynamics like guilt and self-reliance sabotage spiritual growth. By sharing personal stories, Strobel illustrates how honesty with emotions fosters transformation. He stresses the dangers of guilt-driven church culture and calls for a focus on humility, authentic friendships, and God’s presence in everyday life.

Matt Wenger, the Executive Clinical Director of the Begin Again Institute, joins for an insightful discussion on sexual addiction and healing. He sheds light on the complexities of addiction and the ripple effects on loved ones, advocating for a compassionate understanding of recovery. The conversation emphasizes the vital role of community and vulnerability in overcoming addiction, challenging isolation with support from Christian cohorts. Matt also tackles betrayal trauma for partners, promoting pathways to healing built on empathy, trust, and genuine intimacy.

Clarissa Moll, a podcast moderator from Christianity Today’s The Bulletin, flips the script on Steve Cuss, delving into the Four Spaces of Anxiety. They tackle how today’s fast-paced life obscures spiritual clarity, urging listeners to embrace intentional pauses. The duo explores rumination, the quest for control, and the therapeutic roles of prayer and journaling. They also shed light on differentiation, boundaries in relationships, and even the implications of artificial intelligence, all while empowering listeners to navigate their anxieties with resilience.

Toni Collier, a vibrant speaker known for her insights on community healing and vulnerability, joins Steve and Lisa Cuss for an engaging discussion. They explore the Four Spaces of Anxiety and how it affects our relationships, emphasizing the power of vulnerability and intentional communities. The couple shares personal stories and practical tools for navigating anxiety in parenting and ministry, advocating for open dialogue and empathy. Ultimately, they highlight how authentic connections can break the cycle of anxiety and foster healthier families and neighborhoods.

Renowned relationship expert Dr. Les Parrott joins for a candid conversation on empathy and emotional health. He challenges deep-rooted myths within Christian circles, arguing for a healthier approach to vulnerability and connection. They discuss the fine line between empathy and enmeshment, and how technology can enhance genuine relationships. Dr. Parrott also emphasizes the transformative power of hearing God’s voice free from shame, enriching our spiritual and emotional lives while addressing the complexities of parenting and anxiety.

Join Toni Collier, founder of Broken Crayons Still Color, as she shares her journey of healing and resilience after childhood trauma and betrayal. An inspiring speaker and author, Toni dives deep into how anxiety affects our lives and how authentic community can aid in overcoming it. She discusses transformative moments from therapy to faith that helped her navigate life's challenges. With a focus on vulnerability, she emphasizes the importance of connection and the unique experiences of women of color in ministry, offering a message of hope and empowerment.

In this conversation, Clarissa Moll, a seasoned producer and co-host of insightful podcasts, joins Steve Cuss to explore the intricate dynamics of anxiety and emotional resilience. They delve into the contagious nature of anxiety and the importance of empathy in relationships. Clarissa shares the transformative 'four spaces' framework, offering practical steps to foster awareness and clarity. The duo highlights the healing power of community support and nurturing connections, paving the way for emotional freedom in a chaotic world.

Jimmy Carnes, a Capable Life trainer and Enneagram expert, joins Steve Cuss for a deep dive into the emotional complexities of leadership and relationships. They tackle triangulation and the power of 'being human-sized' over the facade of control. The conversation also highlights how lighting a candle symbolizes bridging belief and divine connection. With insights on the Enneagram's impact on personal growth and the challenges of navigating faith-based leadership, the discussion promises to spark introspection and authenticity.

Dive into the beautiful mess of faith where love meets personal growth. Discover how small moments, like foraging for blackberries, can inspire spiritual journeys. Explore the tension between beliefs and personal experiences while navigating faith gaps. Reflect on the dynamics of love and belonging in adulthood. Hear personal stories that highlight the importance of acknowledging struggles in one's faith. Embrace the idea of redemption, encouraging deeper connections with God and others, and find transformative insights for healthier relationships.