Being Human with Steve Cuss

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.

Lisa Fields, a leading Christian apologist and author of *When Faith Disappoints*, delves into the complexities of faith and doubt. She explores the struggles unique to pastors' kids and the importance of vulnerability in faith communities. The conversation emphasizes compassionate listening over debating in apologetics, addressing the emotional context behind faith questions. Fields shares insights on navigating trauma, highlighting that true healing is found in surrendering to Jesus, while also discussing the vital role of community support and the history of African descent apologetics.

Brian Zahnd, a prominent figure in discussions of pilgrimage and faith, and his wife, Peri Zahnd, an influential voice in spiritual matters, share their life-altering experiences from walking the Camino de Santiago. They delve into the emotional healing they found during their 40-day pilgrimage and its transformative impact on their lives and ministry. The couple explores faith, community, and the depth of connection found in local churches, emphasizing walking as a dynamic form of spiritual practice that fosters deeper connections with God.

Dennis Edwards, vice president for church relations and dean at North Park University, shares his insights on being the only Black man in various settings. He discusses how humility involves both supporting the vulnerable and engaging in difficult conversations about faith. Edwards emphasizes the need for inclusivity and respect amidst today’s polarization, particularly on social media. He reflects on the unique sense of belonging that local churches can offer, fostering deep connections and community despite challenges.

Dive into the complexities of anxiety and relationships depicted in 'The Bear.' Explore how characters navigate chronic anxiety and the impact on their interactions. Discover the pitfalls of triangulation and unhealthy communication patterns. See how human connection and recognition can transform lives. Examine the themes of ambition and personal growth, revealing the struggle for validation versus embracing self-worth. It's a deep reflection on the challenges of being human, all wrapped up in a compelling narrative from a kitchen in Chicago.

Alan Briggs, founder of Stay Forth and author of 'AntiBurnout,' joins the conversation to tackle the challenges of leader health and burnout. He shares insights on managing back-to-school anxiety and the unique triggers we face. The duo explores strategies for identifying personal needs and forging connections without falling prey to resentment. Emphasizing holistic wellness, they discuss how emotional and spiritual health complement physical well-being. Briggs also highlights finding joy in everyday moments as a remedy against burnout.

Mandy Smith, a pastor and artist steeped in discussions about art and anxiety, dives into how false needs fuel chronic anxiety. She shares insights on the emotional resonance of returning home and the importance of personal history. The conversation highlights the tangled relationship between faith and politics, especially for Christians during elections. With a blend of humor and personal stories, Mandy emphasizes authenticity, self-reflection, and the role of art in fostering community and spiritual integrity.