Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's conversation, Michael sits down with James Bryan Smith to dive deep into the beautiful interplay between faith and psychology. Throughout this dialogue, they explore how spiritual formation and mental health are more intertwined than ever. You'll hear powerful anecdotes about moments that resonated deeply within church communities, the impact of transformative phrases, and the widespread acceptance of mental health tools like the Enneagram.

This episode also touches on significant topics like the integration of neuroscience, the evolving views within the Christian community towards therapy, and the importance of addressing sin and forgiveness responsibly. Smith sheds light on the growing acceptance of psychological insights in spiritual practices and the upcoming Apprentice Gathering Conference that aims to integrate these realms further.

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In today's enlightening episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick," we delve into the intricate world of neurodiverse marriages. Join Michael and Julianne Cusick as they explore the challenges and dynamics couples face when one or both partners are on the autism spectrum. With Michael openly sharing his diagnosis of high-functioning Asperger's and Julianne bringing her expertise as a certified neurodiverse couples coach and licensed marriage and family therapist, this episode promises deep insights and practical advice. 

Learn about the common themes in neurodiverse relationships, the unique struggles and rewards, and the transformative power of understanding and tailored coaching. Whether navigating a neurodiverse marriage yourself or simply seeking to broaden your understanding, this episode is packed with valuable content and hopeful perspectives. Tune in and discover how embracing neurodiversity can pave the way for healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

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Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, we have a special treat as the tables are turned, and Julianne takes the helm to interview Michael. 

Join us as they delve deep into the reality of life's messiness, exploring themes of frustration, overwhelm, and the importance of self-awareness and compassion. Michael shares his struggles with over-scheduling, resentment, and irritability, while Julianne opens up about her emotional battles. Together, they reveal the power of vulnerability, humility, and maintaining healthy connections. So, prepare for an honest, relatable conversation that underscores the true essence of living in the present and embracing life's imperfections.

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Welcome back to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, we bring you a special encore presentation featuring a conversation between our host, Michael John Cusick, and the esteemed 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.

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Welcome to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's episode, we welcome Marta Hobbs, the author of Unraveling: A Woman's Search for Freedom and the Journey of Coming Home. Marta will share her inspiring story of healing, self-discovery, and reclaiming her inner beauty. She will also discuss her experiences as a survivor and refugee, her struggles with trauma, and her ultimate realization that healing is a never-ending process of self-discovery.

Throughout the episode, we will delve into Marta's background, growing up under communist oppression in Poland and fleeing to the United States at 12. We will learn how these early experiences shaped her response to pressure and trauma, leading her to overperform to prove her worth. Marta will share the pivotal moment in 2014 when she experienced a panic attack despite appearing to have a successful and enviable life and how this led her to seek therapy and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Join us as we explore Marta's mission to normalize conversations about struggles and trauma, her commitment to creating a safe space for women to reclaim their worth and femininity, and her invitation to embrace freedom and playfulness in life after healing.

Click here to discover more about Marta.

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If you need to listen to the first half of the conversation, click here -> Episode 317 - Dr. Janelle Hallman, "Mindfulness and the Presence of God, Part 1"

Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's podcast, Michael continues his conversation with Dr. Janelle Hallman, diving deep into the practice of mindfulness and its transformative power. In this episode, Janelle opens up about her struggle with feeling disconnected from her body and how mindfulness played a crucial role in her journey towards reconnection. Together, they explore the significance of paying attention to bodily sensations, how our bodies help us understand and process emotions, and the concept that "everything belongs."

Michael and Janelle also discuss the integration of body, mind, and spirit, emphasizing the importance of being present and cultivating a relationship with God. Janelle guides listeners through a mindful breathing exercise, encouraging us to redirect our attention from mental chatter to the present moment. Discover how mindfulness supports spiritual growth and healing from trauma and brings a compassionate and nonjudgmental perspective into everyday life. Tune in and learn how setting your mind on the things above can lead to meaningful and practical changes that restore the soul.

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Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we welcome Dr. Janelle Hallman back to the podcast. Janelle serves on the team at Restoring the Soul and is a Licensed Professional Counselor, ordained minister, professor, author, and speaker on issues such as redemption, healing, and wholeness. She has a profound expertise in trauma, sexuality, and personal transformation. In today's conversation, Dr. Hallman takes us on a journey through the power of mindfulness as a fundamental way of being, far beyond mere stress reduction. She also shares how her love for birdsong led her to embrace mindfulness and teach others to find relaxation in nature's melodies. Together with Michael, they explore the benefits of practicing the presence of God and being truly present and how these spiritual practices can rewire our brains and reduce reactivity.

So, whether you're struggling to embody the tenets of your faith in daily life or looking for a deeper connection with your inner self and the world around you, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical wisdom. Let's embark on this journey of restoring the soul with mindfulness and presence.

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Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we dive into the profound and transformative realms of intuition, legacy, and rites of passage with our guest, Dr. Christy Bauman, a therapist, scholar, and author of the newly released "Her Rites: A Sacred Journey for the Mind, Body, and Soul."

Join us as Christy emphasizes the importance of women trusting their intuition in a culture that often encourages them to second-guess themselves and how trauma can influence this inner knowing. Michael shares his personal experiences, highlighting the intersection of neuroscience and intuition. Together, they explore the concept of legacy and its impact on future generations, drawing from Christy's poignant personal stories.

We will also venture into the fascinating rites of initiation and exile, uncovering how facing one's deepest fears and engaging with God’s voice can lead to profound self-discovery and growth. Christy touches upon her empowering program, Womaneering, and the significance of using the body for sustenance and blessing.

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Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, we welcome back our good friend Sean Seay. Together, he and Michael explore the profound impact of investing in the well-being of church leaders and staff, highlighting innovative practices such as sabbaticals for personal and professional growth.

We'll hear about Sean's transformative experience with a two-week intensive program at Restoring the Soul, which deepened his understanding of his own story and influenced his compassionate leadership approach at Athens Church. Sean and Michael also discuss the importance of long-term relationships with churches, the role of spiritual formation in the digital age, and the significance of intentional rest periods away from devices for spiritual growth.

Join us as we uncover practical strategies for nurturing leaders, fostering spiritual maturity, and integrating ancient practices into modern ministry.

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Welcome to another inspiring episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's conversation, Michael is joined by Brian Boecker, as they delve deep into the themes of love, faith, and spirituality. Together, they explore the idea of embracing playfulness and love over living in fear and the role of mysticism in experiencing divine love.

Brian and Michael discuss how attachment and love connect to the gospel and faith and the importance of embodying spirituality through our senses and recognizing our physical experiences. They reflect on personal stories and the profound lessons from childhood experiences, such as moments of tenderness from nuns and the beauty of a sunset on Lake Michigan.

As they journey through these reflections, Michael highlights the launch of his new book, "Sacred Attachment: Escaping Spiritual Exhaustion and Trusting in Divine Love." This book promises to guide readers through spiritual struggles and help them find joyful divine attachment. Pre-order your copy today.

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Welcome to "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In this episode, we continue our inspiring conversation with Jim Smith, diving into the transformative power of faith. Jim expresses his deep gratitude for the journey he's shared with his Christ-like collaborator, Matt, and extends heartfelt thanks to our listeners.

Together, Michael and Jim explore profound concepts from Jim's book "The Good and Beautiful You," discussing how re-narrating personal stories within a Christ-centered framework can lead to significant faith growth. They emphasize the importance of integrating spiritual disciplines, the role of relationships and mentors like Dallas Willard and John Wesley, and the impact of resources such as books and podcasts on spiritual development.

This episode also delves into the power of solitude as an antidote to busyness, the freedom found in truly understanding spiritual practices and the transformative hope borne out of suffering. Through personal anecdotes and shared experiences, Jim and Michael highlight how integrating faith into everyday life can lead to authentic and lasting transformation.

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