Being Human with Steve Cuss

Chuck DeGroat, a psychologist and pastor at Western Seminary, dives into the crisis of integrity facing church leadership. He discusses the hidden dynamics behind pastoral burnout and narcissism, explaining how unexamined coping mechanisms can erode character. They explore why church boards often overlook red flags and highlight the necessity of creating safe environments for accountability. The conversation also touches on navigating imposter syndrome and the importance of authenticity in personal growth, offering practical tools for healthier leadership.

Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw, co-directors of the Center for Embodied Faith, dive into how our earliest relationships mold our faith and connections. They explore attachment theory's impact on emotional landscapes, discussing secure versus insecure attachments in relatable terms. The conversation highlights coping strategies, the importance of self-awareness, and how trauma shapes current relationships. Personal journeys into fatherhood also shed light on the ongoing work required for deeper faith and understanding. Their insights emphasize self-compassion as vital for healing and connection.

In this insightful discussion, Jen Ripley, a psychologist and esteemed professor at Regent University, shares her expertise on fostering mental health in communities. She offers practical strategies for churches to support individuals in crisis while maintaining personal well-being. Topics include setting boundaries, the healing power of collective worship, and the importance of having a supportive network. Jen also introduces "The Church Cares" initiative aimed at training individuals to help others without sacrificing their own mental health.

Explore how layovers and moments of uncertainty can actually foster spiritual growth. The host beautifully connects personal stories with biblical insights, revealing how these 'in-between' spaces challenge our need for control and perfection. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on trust and embrace the lessons found in transitional periods. Expect humor, unexpected wisdom, and a fresh perspective on feeling spiritually adrift, all while finding hope in the most unusual situations.

Doubt may be the starting point for a deeper faith journey rather than an obstacle. Personal stories reveal how anxiety and certainty can hinder spiritual growth, while curiosity fosters true connection. The podcast emphasizes the importance of supportive communities where faith leaders can openly discuss their uncertainties. It champions the idea that questioning assumptions leads to authentic relationships with God and others, promoting love and understanding as essential tools for spiritual renewal.

Cohosts Steve and Lisa Cuss revisit powerful conversations with guests like Jinger Duggar, Strahan Coleman, Ian Cron, and Greg Robbins, diving deeper into themes of spiritual growth, emotional resilience, and inner healing. Exploring the intersections of faith, mental health, and discipleship, Steve and Lisa reflect on how practices like gratitude, vulnerability, and relational awareness help us experience God’s presence more fully. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, triggers, chronic illness, or something else this episode offers rich insights for anyone seeking wholeness and a deeper sense of home.  Resources mentioned in this episode include: “You’re the Dawn” from the album Posters Beholding: Deepening Our Experience in God by Strahan Coleman Thirsting: Quenching Our Soul’s Deepest Desire by Strahan Coleman Strahan’s music on Spotify  Revelation Simplified: A Commonsense Approach to the Bible’s Most Mysterious Book by Greg Robbins Learn more about Greg’s work at gregrobbinsrevelationsimplified.com.  Becoming Free Indeed: My Story of Disentangling Faith from Fear by Jinger Duggar Vuolo People Pleaser: Breaking Free from the Burden of Imaginary Expectations by Jinger Duggar Vuolo Learn more about Ian’s work at ianmorgancron.com. The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery by Ian Morgan Cron Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Host Steve Cuss and theologian Greg Robbins unpack the often-misunderstood Book of Revelation. Far from being a roadmap to doom, Revelation offers a powerful message of hope, calling Christians to live with courage, sacrifice, and trust in God’s ultimate victory. They tackle Armageddon, explore the nature of true power, and reframe Revelation as a deeply pastoral text for discipleship. If you've ever wrestled with end-times anxiety, this conversation will refresh your view with biblical clarity and encouragement.Resources mentioned in this episode include:Revelation Simplified: A Commonsense Approach To The Bible's Most Mysterious BookRevelation Simplified Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Strahan Coleman, a New Zealand singer-songwriter and author, dives into the intersection of neuroscience and faith. He shares his journey through chronic illness and the spiritual awakening it sparked. The conversation highlights how gratitude and prayer reshape our experience of God's love. Strahan emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in faith and discusses how personal trauma can lead to profound healing through divine connection. This dialogue underscores prayer as a powerful pathway to presence, inviting openness amid life's struggles.

Jinger Duggar Vuolo, a reality TV star and author, shares her empowering journey from fear-based religion to authentic faith and emotional freedom. She discusses overcoming the restrictive teachings of Bill Gothard and the challenge of breaking free from people-pleasing habits. Jinger emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, community, and self-awareness in finding true identity. This conversation is a heartfelt exploration of healing from spiritual trauma and finding strength in genuine connections.

Ian Cron, an author and psychotherapist with a personal history of addiction, shares his transformative journey toward healing. He delves into the intersection of addiction and spirituality, revealing how struggles can lead to self-awareness and divine connection. The conversation touches on the complex nature of faith during recovery and the church's role in offering forgiveness. Cron offers insights on addiction as a misguided solution and emphasizes the significance of personal accountability, grace, and the community's support in the healing process.