Being Human with Steve Cuss

Lisa Cuss, a licensed therapist and nervous-system regulation expert, joins Clarissa Moll to discuss emotional health and trauma-informed care. They explore anxiety and its impact on our window of tolerance, highlighting the differences between hyperarousal and hypoarousal. Lisa provides practical tools like breath prayers and grounding techniques to help reconnect with God's presence amidst stress. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, sensory grounding, and self-compassion in navigating emotional challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Lysa TerKeurst, author and advocate, provides profound insights on healing from unwanted divorce and setting healthy boundaries. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing codependency and urges listeners to resist the pull of social media that can exacerbate personal pain. The hosts also delve into how anxiety can be contagious, how to manage emotional loads, and the significance of staying 'human-sized' in relationships. Join them for a practical guide to achieving emotional health rooted in faith.

Abby Thompson, author of the memoir Growing, shares her journey of overcoming anxiety while navigating life from Nashville to New York City. She discusses how therapy, prayer, and community shaped her experience in urban living. Abby reflects on the pressures of social media, the contrast between online portrayals and real life, and the importance of staying 'human-sized' amid societal expectations. She also highlights tools for managing self-doubt and the transformative power of genuine connections.

Lysa TerKeurst, bestselling author and Bible teacher, shares her heart-wrenching journey through betrayal and unwanted divorce. She discusses the challenges of gaslighting, the importance of setting healthy boundaries, and how faith can guide healing. Lysa emphasizes acceptance over seeking endless answers and warns against online 'pain-shopping.' Through her experiences, she provides hope and practical advice for those facing relational pain, focusing on reclaiming identity and the transformative power of resilience.

Clarissa Moll, a producer and moderator for Christianity Today podcasts, joins Steve Cuss to delve into living 'human-sized' in our faith and relationships. They discuss how anxiety can distort our perception, pushing us to either dominate or retreat. Clarissa shares insights on recognizing our triggers and reactivity while Steve highlights the importance of grounding ourselves in spiritual practices. They also reflect on biblical lessons, particularly from Zacchaeus, showcasing the value of balance in responding to life's challenges.

Alicia Britt Chole, an author and spiritual director, dives deep into the transformative power of dark nights of the soul. She emphasizes how these challenging seasons can cultivate intimacy with God and spiritual growth. Alongside Carla Harding and Brian Heasley from 24-7 Prayer, they discuss turning anxiety into prayerful reflection, advocating for healthier communication in relationships, and understanding generational dynamics. Together, they offer practical tools for fostering resilience and navigating emotional reactivity in everyday life.

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Alicia Britt Chole, a transformative author and spiritual director, shares her journey from atheism to a profound faith in Jesus. She discusses how doubt can coexist alongside belief, revealing her insights on integrating faith into daily life. Parenting special-needs children taught her valuable lessons about humility and calmness. Alicia also explores her experience with cancer, illustrating how challenges deepened her spiritual journey, all while emphasizing grace, love, and the importance of relationships.

Brian Heasley, a leader in 24-7 Prayer, and Carla Harding, a key voice on Lectio 365, share their experiences growing up during Northern Ireland's Troubles. They discuss how prayer can heal deep divides and promote unity, drawing from personal stories of conflict and reconciliation. The duo reflects on the transformative power of the Lectio 365 app for daily devotion and spiritual grounding, while also addressing the importance of self-awareness and grace in fostering community and connection amidst divisive times.

Clarissa Moll is back to flip the script on Steve Cuss, unpacking the power dynamics, generational divides, and identity challenges that shape today’s leadership. From Colin Powell’s intentional practices to the biblical wisdom of Jesus and Paul, they explore how emotional safety, vulnerability, and faith create healthier families, workplaces, and churches. This conversation offers practical insights for leaders seeking to build inclusive communities, authentic connections, and resilient discipleship in a divided world. Episode Resources: Colin Powell’s book It Worked for Me Article: Gen-Z Is Labeled As ‘Difficult’ In The Workplace, But There’s More To The Story Me Too movement - Mentioned in relation to creating emotionally safe environments. Exploring Malcolm Gladwell’s "Magic Third" Rule Article: 'We See Children As Pestilent' (building on the idea attributed to Socrates) More From Clarissa Moll: Clarissa Moll’s The Bulletin podcast Explore Clarissa Moll’s website Read Clarissa Moll’s substack Previous Episodes with Steve and Clarissa: Steve and Clarissa’s August episode of Being Human Steve and Clarissa’s September episode of Being Human Sign up for Steve’s Newsletter & Podcast Reminders: Capable Life Newsletter Join Steve at an upcoming intensive:  Capable Life Intensives Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Insights swirl around themes of healing and leadership. Matt Wenger shares his journey of overcoming sex addiction through grace and self-kindness. The discussion reveals how childhood coping mechanisms morph into addictions. Kyle Strobel critiques self-help spirituality, emphasizing authentic connection with the divine. Ben Mandrell highlights the importance of playfulness in leadership, using humor to rebuild morale during challenging times. Together, they explore vulnerability, intimacy, and the power of community in personal and professional growth.