What do a high schooler’s senior year and the offices of a high-fashion magazine have in common? Stress.During a discussion of The Devil Wears Prada, Steve Cuss and his college-bound daughter, Kaylee Cuss, talk about the anxiety on display in the iconic Meryl Streep film. The two talk about how Streep’s character, Miranda Priestly, may be the one in charge, but she’s arguably also the most anxious. They talk about trying to fit into existing systems, high emotions in the workplace, and relational enmeshment. Tune in for a heartfelt, insightful discussion of failure, success, and taking care of the relationships that matter most.Resources mentioned in this episode include: The Devil Wears Prada “Ep148: Gilmore Girls and Systems Theory” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Joy Allmond was fresh out of college, she struggled to find a professional role in her field. She decided to make the most of her young, single years and became a flight attendant. The Lord used that experience to broaden her perspective—especially when she staffed one of the first flights to take to the skies after September 11, 2001.Now, Allmond is the executive editor of Christianity Today. She and Steve talk about how airport behavior often reveals deeper feelings and what it takes to manage a crisis. They talk about the recent CT redesign, new content in the magazine, and Allmond’s hopes for CT’s future. Allmond shares her thoughts on the church at its best, experiences of feeling fully loved, and taking time to hear from the Lord.Resources mentioned in this episode include: “We Can’t Worry Our Way to Peace” November/December 2024 issue of Christianity Today “CT Design, Redesign, and Re-redesign, from 1956 to Today” “Qualms and Proverbs” (CT advice column) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Thanksgiving approaches, the hosts delve into the transformative power of gratitude. They share personal anecdotes and the idea of a 'Life Giving List' to enhance connections. Listeners gain insights into navigating the emotional dynamics of family gatherings and fostering mindfulness amidst political differences. The importance of curiosity in improving relationships is highlighted, along with practical tips for cultivating thankfulness in daily life. The conversation wraps up with a lighthearted debate about holiday favorites, enriching the festive spirit.

Listeners dive into the essential dynamics of healthy relationships and mental health in faith communities. The discussion uncovers family systems theory and its connection to personal growth. Insights are shared on helping young adults transition into independence while maintaining strong ties. Strategies for leaders to foster open communication are explored, alongside the church's role in addressing mental illness. Tips for parents navigating their children's move to adulthood round out this thoughtful conversation.

Explore the beauty of vulnerability in the bustling heart of Central Park. Discover how balancing authenticity with the fear of judgment can transform relationships. Delve into the challenges faced by a chaplain and the lessons learned about unconditional love and emotional growth. Learn the importance of creating nurturing spaces for self-acceptance and connection. Uncover the profound power of being fully seen and known, as we all crave genuine intimacy in our interactions.

Barrett Harkins, a missionary in Santiago, discusses his transformative experiences on the Camino de Santiago, where he helps pilgrims connect spiritually. He emphasizes the power of slowing down and the profound conversations that arise during the journey. Harkins shares how the Camino has been a space for God to meet people in their anxiety, offering a path to personal growth. The conversation touches on letting go of burdens, fostering a reflective mindset, and the simple joys found along the way, including a touching family surprise.

Chuck DeGroat, a pastor and author known for his insights on emotional health, joins for a deep dive into internal healing. They discuss the challenges of aging, including anxiety around mortality and legacy concerns. DeGroat shares thoughts on navigating narcissism within the church and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. The conversation touches on the pain of secondary trauma, the nuances of rest versus shutdown, and the journey towards wholeheartedness. Throughout, there's a focus on reconnecting with God and embracing one's true self.

Brandi Wilson was happily raising her three sons with her pastor husband—that is, until he decided to leave their marriage, their family, and the church they had invested in for years. Close friends and leadership coaches Brandi Wilson and Lori Wilhite share how they weathered Wilson’s devastating loss together. They talk about the particular struggles of being a pastor’s wife and the heartbreak of feeling like someone else is controlling your life circumstances. They discuss managing anxiety, bearing one another’s burdens, and healing even when restoration does not occur. They also share about the community they run together—Leading and Loving It—and why, despite all the hard things, they still love the church. Resources mentioned in this episode or recommended by the guests include: Brandi Wilson Lori Wilhite Leading and Loving It Friedman’s Fables by Ed Friedman The Enneagram Philippians: Chasing Happy by Lori Wilhite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Beth Moore, a world-class Bible teacher and author, shares her remarkable journey through trauma and resilience. She opens up about her childhood abuse and her departure from the Southern Baptist Convention, emphasizing that in God, nothing is wasted. Moore discusses her husband's battle with bipolar disorder and the importance of vulnerability in healing. Listeners will find her insights on faith amidst criticism, the significance of community support, and how her recent back surgery deepened her understanding of God's unconditional love captivating and inspiring.

Lisa Cuss, co-host and an insightful voice on anxiety and emotional health, joins to discuss the elusive nature of anxiety in our lives. They introduce the 'Four Spaces' framework to help recognize and manage anxiety's various manifestations. The conversation covers the importance of self-awareness, especially in family dynamics, and using personal rituals to connect with spirituality. Lisa offers relatable anecdotes, emphasizing the necessity of open discussions about mental health and how to embrace God's presence during anxious moments.