Being Human with Steve Cuss

How many minutes per week do you think you can be exactly yourself?That’s the question that host Steve Cuss poses at the beginning of this episode, and it takes on specific meaning as he converses with his guest, Marvin Williams. Williams is the lead pastor of Trinity Church in Lansing, Michigan, and is currently earning his doctorate in systems theory, particularly as it pertains to the African-American experience. His forthcoming dissertation, My Whole Black Self, considers what it’s like to be exactly yourself and what happens when people cannot be exactly themselves. Cuss and Williams discuss what drew Williams to systems theory, how leadership starts with personal transformation, and what it looks like to live in one’s identity fully. They talk about bullying, anxiety, and the Black writers, thinkers, and experts who have influenced Williams’ perspective. The two discuss connectedness, what it’s like to be in majority culture spaces, and how calmness is not always the opposite of anxiety. Their discussion also explores violence against Black Americans, the nuances of pastoring, and the role of politics in the life of the church. The Expectation Gap by Steve Cuss is now available—order here!Resources mentioned in this episode include:  Marvin Williams A Failure of Nerve: Leadership in the Age of the Quick Fix by Edwin H. Friedman Murray Bowen Bowen family systems theory Trisha Taylor “To Belong to One Another: Remaining Calm and Curious in Times of High Anxiety” with Rich Villodas The Souls of Black Folk from W.E.B. Du Bois Psychological Storms: The African American Struggle for Identity by Thomas Parham Charlie Dates Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison “Being Human with Steve Cuss” is a production of Christianity Today Executive Produced by Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper Produced and Edited by Matt Stevens Associate Producers: McKenzie Hill, Raed Gilliam, and Abby Perry Theme song by Dan Phelps Original Music by Andy Gullahorn Mix Engineer: Kevin Morris Graphic Design: Amy Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leadership expert Kadi Cole joins Steve Cuss to discuss gender dynamics in the workplace, women's confidence in job applications, power dynamics in the church, and the importance of authentic leadership influenced by her background in nursing. They also talk about Cole's initiative to mentor young leaders in the marketplace.

Joining Steve on this podcast is Lisa, the Friendly Neighborhood Therapist. They discuss faith gaps, human development's impact on faith, and the balance between preventative and redemptive aspects of the gospel. Steve also reads from his upcoming book, 'The Expectation Gap.'

Ex-pastor Steve Cuss discusses the gap between beliefs and experiences of God, using Peter walking on water as an example. He delves into aligning body and head beliefs for peace and freedom and promotes his upcoming book 'The Expectation Gap'.

Steve Carter, former lead teaching pastor, discusses integrity amid church scandal, loss of community, and navigating broken systems. He shares his journey of public loss, accusation, and writing a memoir on grief and healing. The conversation delves into forgiveness, self-reflection in relationships, and spiritual growth amidst personal struggles.

Explore the balance between playfulness and earnestness in teams and faith. Learn how overly serious attitudes can hinder creativity and connection, while incorporating fun and humor can enhance performance. Discover how playfulness in worship can deepen faith and intimacy with God. Encourage personal reflection on habits that connect us to God's love and prioritize elements that make us feel alive.

Author and leader of Unhurried Living, Alan Fadling, discusses the impact of anxiety on personal and organizational dynamics with host Steve Cuss. They explore the significance of rest, leadership, and spiritual connection in combating anxiety and fostering peace. The conversation delves into the differences between 'I am anxiety' and 'I have anxiety' beliefs, understanding Jesus' presence in times of anxiety, and how anxiety influences our engagement with culture. Tune in for insights on finding peace in the midst of turmoil.

Jay Kim, lead pastor of WestGate Church, discusses the challenges of speaking out in the digital age. He emphasizes listening, explores God's timeless nature, and critiques the influence of social media. The conversation touches on human behavior, social media narratives, and the importance of spiritual connectivity in a noisy world.

Chaplain George Doebler teaches Steve systems theory, emphasizing the importance of understanding family systems to diffuse anxiety. They discuss real-life examples of systems theory aiding in personal growth and relationship dynamics. Topics include chaplaincy, trauma recovery, and the impact of theology on anxiety responses.

Charlie Peacock and Andi Ashworth, artists who know great tragedy, discuss grief, art, and hospitality. They share about their lowest valleys and highest mountains, founding Art House America, and the role of music and writing in times of joy and sorrow. The conversation delves into marriage, self-reflection, and finding hope in Christ amidst life's challenges.