Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick

Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's episode, Michael sits down with Christine Wolf Hoover, a licensed professional counselor from Texas and author of "Soul Adventuring: Your Guide to Living with Bravery and Joy." Together, they explore the idea that our faith journey is an invitation into risk, bravery, and joy, not just a checklist of spiritual practices.Through honest conversation and stories drawn from her clinical experience and personal life, Christine breaks down the barriers of toxic positivity, sharing how embracing vulnerability and facing the hard places in life can lead to real transformation. You'll hear practical wisdom on navigating trauma, setting boundaries, and improving emotional health, along with fresh perspectives on classic ideas like "doing the work," regulating your brain, and cultivating joy.Support the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to the Restoring the Soul podcast with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael is joined by two longtime friends and fellow journeyers, Justin and Aaron, who share their transformative experiences at the Restoring the Soul Men’s Intensive Weekend.Together, the trio dives into what makes this weekend so different from the average men’s retreat. From the healing power of anonymity—where first names replace job titles and last names—to the profound brotherhood that develops among men seeking freedom from shame, brokenness, and the barriers that keep them from intimacy. Justin and Aaron reflect on arriving desperate for change, confronting their fears, and discovering a safe space to be truly themselves. Both men describe the event as life-changing, recounting how it ushered in lasting transformation not only for themselves but for hundreds of others.If you’ve ever wondered what it means to encounter deep healing and genuine, spiritual safety among brothers—and why these men keep returning to serve others year after year—this episode offers an honest glimpse into the heart of the Men’s Intensive Weekend. For more information or to register, visit Restoring the Soul Men's WeekendSupport the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

In this engaging conversation, Alan Fadling, a spiritual leader and author known for his insights on unhurried living, shares his journey from a life steeped in anxiety to one focused on peace. He discusses the distinction between genuine caring and anxious control, and how embodying virtues like humility can displace anxiety. Listeners will learn to view anxiety as a signal for practicing God's presence and gain practical tips on experiencing peace both mentally and physically. Ultimately, Alan invites us into a life of trust and gentleness.

Welcome back to Restoring the Soul! In this episode, Michael John Cusick and Julianne Cusick dive deep into the world of intensive counseling, unpacking what makes Restoring the Soul’s approach unique and transformative. You’ll hear about the practical structure of their intensives—meeting with individuals and couples in three-hour blocks over one or two weeks—and what sets this method apart from traditional weekly counseling. They explore the importance of stepping away from daily life to create space for profound healing, the individualized attention each client receives, and the holistic integration of soul care, psychological expertise, and contemplative spiritual practices.Throughout their candid conversation, Michael shares stories of how Restoring the Soul began, while Julianne offers reflections on the power of holding sacred space for clients' stories. If you’ve ever wondered what intensive counseling really means, or how a focused, custom-tailored process can spark breakthroughs in just two weeks, this episode will give you clarity and inspiration.Support the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s conversation, Michael is joined by Dr. J.R. Briggs, author of the book The Art of Asking Better Questions: Pursuing Stronger Relationships, Healthier Leadership and Deeper Faith. Together, they explore why the questions we ask—of God, ourselves, and each other—are so central to personal transformation, deep connection, and spiritual growth.Drawing from years of research, lived experience, and insights from both ancient and modern sources, J.R. Briggs unpacks how better questions (not just more of them) shape the quality of our lives and relationships. They dig into why vulnerability, humility, curiosity, and wisdom are essentials for good questions, and how great question-askers build trust, intimacy, and growth.The conversation is rich with practical tips, stories, and wisdom on becoming people who don’t just demand answers, but who pursue lives oriented around questions of substance and consequence. Whether you’re a leader, friend, partner, or simply someone seeking deeper relationships and faith, you’ll walk away inspired to ask, listen, and connect in new ways.Support the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, we bring you an encore presentation featuring a conversation between our host, Michael John Cusick, and Rev. Dr. Dennis Edwards. Known for his deep theological insights and compassionate pastoral work, Dr. Edwards dives into the concept of restoration, exploring its vital role in enriching faith amidst life's complexities.In this episode, Michael shares about the ministry of Restoring the Soul. Drawing from his journey through trauma, addiction, and healing, Michael passionately discusses the holistic nature of the soul and the crucial process of restoring it to wholeness.Dr. Edwards and Michael cover many compelling topics, from the unity within the Trinity to the importance of embodied spirituality and radical humility in healing personal and societal divisions. Prepare to be inspired and challenged as they unpack what it truly means to close the gap between belief and experience.Support the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

In this conversation, Bette Dickinson, an author and artist focused on spiritual formation, shares her insights from her book, exploring the metaphor of vine making as a pathway to spiritual flourishing. She highlights her friendship with a vine dresser, illustrating how quality and relationship matter more than mere productivity. Bette contrasts the importance of rest and dormancy in spiritual growth with our culture's push for constant output. They discuss the beauty of surrendering productivity in favor of embracing God's love, emphasizing that true flourishing comes from nurturing relationships.

Ian Morgan Cron, an acclaimed author known for works on the Enneagram and spirituality, dives into his latest book, "The Fix," exploring how the 12 steps offer transformative paths for everyone, not just those battling addiction. He candidly shares his personal recovery journey and redefines addiction as a universal experience. Ian emphasizes the importance of spiritual surrender, vulnerability, and community support in the healing process, encouraging listeners to embrace the 12 steps as a roadmap to deeper spiritual growth and purpose.

Tony Kriz, a spiritual entrepreneur and co-author of "Read," discusses the urgent need for childhood literacy and the profound effects of trauma on development. He highlights alarming literacy statistics and connects illiteracy to societal issues like poverty and incarceration. Kriz emphasizes the crucial role of caring adults, advocating for community and church involvement to support children in reading. Inspiring stories and practical volunteering opportunities show how mentorship can change lives, making literacy a critical pathway to healing and justice.

Dr. Alison Cook, a clinical psychologist and author of "Boundaries for Your Soul," combines emotional insight with faith to help people heal. She discusses the importance of setting gentle boundaries with our emotions instead of suppressing them. Alison unveils her concept of the spirit-led self, encouraging listeners to befriend their feelings and view internal conflict as a growth opportunity. Practical tips are shared, emphasizing compassionate inquiry and the integration of self-awareness with spiritual guidance for holistic healing.