Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick

We're pleased to welcome our good friend, Alan Fadling, to the podcast. In this thought-provoking conversation, Michael and Alan dive into the current state of the world, particularly in light of recent events in Israel and Gaza. They explore the idea of finding inner peace amidst global turmoil and the teachings of Jesus as a source of guidance and comfort. Alan shares insights from his upcoming book and draws parallels between the turbulent times that Jesus lived in and our present reality. Join us as we discuss navigating anxiety, distractions, and the overwhelming influx of information in today's digital age. 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 episode, titled "From Infidelity to Intensives: Ben Wilson's Path to Healing and Helping Others," a special guest is joining us. Ben Wilson, a Restoring the Soul Intensive therapist and a longtime acquaintance of our host, Michael. Ben shares his journey and what led him to join the Restoring the Soul team and participate in their men's intensive programs. He also discusses his experience in working with couples dealing with infidelity and the book he wrote on the subject. Throughout the conversation, Ben emphasizes the importance of addressing deep longings and unhealthy strategies in our lives and the role of facing pain and suffering in true transformation. Ben's varied background, from being a golfer to completing the grueling Iron Man race, adds to the richness of his perspective. So, get ready to dive deep into the complexities of the human heart and discover how restoration is possible even in the midst of deep pain. 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!

"Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but having an accurate self-perception. It's about being grounded in who God made you to be." - Rev. Dr. Dennis EdwardsWelcome back to the Restoring Soul podcast! In this episode, host Michael John Cusick invites Rev. Dr. Dennis Edwards to dive deep into the topic of humility. They discuss the misunderstandings surrounding humility and how it is often misapplied in the lives of followers of Jesus. Dr. Edwards shares his insights as a theologian and pastor, shedding light on the true essence of humility. They explore biblical examples, such as Moses and Jesus, and examine the importance of recognizing and submitting to God's perspective of ourselves. Join us as we uncover the truths about humility and its transforming power.HELPFUL RESOURCES:Humility Illuminated: The Biblical Path Back to Christian CharacterSupport 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!

Michael John Cusick, expert in soul care, explores the concept of iCARE and the importance of self-compassion, kindness, and gentleness in loving others. He challenges the misconception of being fundamentally flawed and shares practical exercises for emotional regulation and connection to God. The podcast also discusses the significance of lament, guarding the heart, regulating breath, and techniques for managing anxiety and distressing feelings.

"No more settling for external success; it's about depth, sobriety, and engaging with my own soul's depths. That's where true fulfillment lies.” - Chris BrunoWelcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's episode, we delve into the profound journey of self-discovery and transformation that men undergo as they transition into the sage stage of life. Our guest, Chris Bruno, shares his experiences and insights as he navigates the in-between space between the past and the future. Drawing from the metaphor of a craggy peninsula and tumultuous waters, Chris beautifully articulates the desire to integrate fragmented parts of ourselves and embrace all aspects of our identity. Join us as we explore the importance of intentional living, the power of the sage, and the significance of tending to our inner child.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!

“Risk-taking can lead to restoration only if it’s motivated by love.” - Haejin Shim FujimuraIn this episode of Restoring the Soul, Michael is joined by Mako & Haejin Shim Fujimura. They will engage in a conversation covering a wide range of topics, including trauma, the significance of 9/11, the art of Kintsugi, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the critical issue of human trafficking.Mako is a prominent contemporary artist known for his deliberate and reflective approach to creating "slow art." His work, characterized by its thoughtful pace, has been aptly described by David Brooks of the New York Times as "a subtle rebellion against the accelerating pace of modern life." Beyond his artistry, Mako is a respected arts advocate, writer, and speaker, globally acknowledged as a cultural influencer. He has also held the prestigious role of a Presidential appointee to the National Council on the Arts from 2003-2009, where he played a crucial role in shaping arts-related policies and engaging with decision-makers internationally.Haejin, who is married to Mako, is an accomplished international attorney and the CEO of Embers International. She also serves as the President of the Kintsugi Academy, where her mission is to illuminate the darkest corners of existence and aid others in their journey of renewal and recovery.HELPFUL RESOURCES:Episode 13 - Mako Fujimura, “Silence and Beauty, Part 1”Episode 14 - Mako Fujimura, “Silence and Beauty, Part 2”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!

"Contrary to what most Enneagram Ones think, they're fantastic. I don't know what it is about Enneagram Ones, but of all the numbers on the Enneagram, they are the most resistant to learning that that's their type."In today's episode, our good friend Ian Cron will be joined by our very own Julianne Cusick for a captivating conversation about finding our inner encourager through the lens of the Enneagram.Ian shares his belief that the Enneagram is not just a tool for self-discovery but a fundamental part of our daily lives. As a psychotherapist and spiritual director, Ian incorporates the Enneagram into his counseling and soul care work, recommending resources like books and podcasts to his clients.Ian and Julianne explore the importance of self-knowledge and self-awareness as the starting point for personal growth, drawing from their own experiences and reflections. They delve into their challenges, such as the struggle with stillness for a Type One, and how they have learned and grown through those experiences. Stay tuned as they discuss the impact of the Enneagram on their relationships, the importance of appreciating different attention styles, and the lessons they have learned along the way. 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 EMDR therapy, we're trying to help activate the client's own brain's knowingness how to heal." - Barb MaibergerIn today's episode, we have Barb Maiberger joining us to delve into the fascinating world of trauma therapy. Barb is an expert in the field and a passionate advocate for EMDR therapy. We'll explore how this transformative approach helps clients address past experiences that still affect them today. From understanding the role of the brain in trauma to the power of integrating the mind-body connection, Barb shares her wealth of knowledge and experience. We'll also touch on the importance of finding the right therapist, the impact of trauma on relationships, and the promising shift toward trauma-informed treatment in schools. Get ready for an eye-opening conversation that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the power of healing and transformation.______________Barb Maiberger is the founder and Director of the Maiberger Institute in Boulder, Colorado, where she trains counselors and mental health therapists from around the US in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Barb is a dynamic instructor who engages and invites those who take her courses to bring their own professional experience, passion, and story to get equipped in EMDR to work with clients and handle real-life issues in a way that is immediately applicable and practical. HELPFUL RESOURCES:Episode 75 - Barb Maiberger & Dr. Arielle Schwartz, "Embodiment and Trauma"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!

"But here's the beautiful part - God honors our honesty and vulnerability. Lament and grief are invitations to draw closer to Him." - Michael John CusickWelcome back to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick". In today's episode, titled "Navigating the Valley: How Lament and Grief Lead Us to Encounter God's Presence," Michael and Brian Boecker delve into the profound topic of grief and lament. They begin by examining Psalm 88, an intense Psalm that expresses the psalmist's anguish and feelings of abandonment by God. God honors our honesty and vulnerability, even in moments of anger and confusion toward Him. They also discuss the invitation to grieve and engage in lament as a means of intimacy and trust with God. Pulling from various sources, including Walter Brugeman's books on the Psalms and lament, we learn that lament is a form of worship, allowing us to bring our hearts before God. Join us as we welcome and engage with our suffering, embracing the paradox of suffering and resurrection and seeking to be hospitable to our pain. Prepare for a thought-provoking and soul-stirring conversation that will challenge and encourage you on your faith journey.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!

"To truly embrace the present moment, especially when we have no power to alter the result, it is essential that we approach life with compassion." - Michael John CusickWelcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's episode, titled "Embracing the Unchangeable in the Messiness of Life," we dive into the antidote to negative messages, starting with the power of self-compassion and self-awareness. Julianne and Michael John Cusick explore the importance of becoming aware of what's happening within ourselves and around us and the value of offering self-compassion in the face of old negative tapes that often replay in our minds. They discuss the role of humility and confiding in others, creating a sense of community and healthy attachment. We'll also explore the act of offering a blessing to those struggling with negative messages, lack of self-compassion, and self-awareness. Join us as we journey through this episode filled with wisdom, vulnerability, and the transformative power of self-compassion and connection.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!