Shows
Words of WisdomWoW 143: On emotional sobriety, resilience, and generosityShow notesReflect on emotional sobriety, resilience, and pray a prayer of generosity.About Josh Kalsbeek, LMFT• As a Psychoherapist Josh helps people overcome their greatest struggles.• Sign up to receive Josh's weekly email newsletter, Words of Wisdom. ---Support this podcast by buying a book through one of the links above.Support the podcast
2025-01-0802 minWords of WisdomAnother year in the books: 2024 reflectionsShow notesIn this brief year-end message, Josh reflects on accomplishing a lifelong dream of writing a book and shares his experiences from the past year. He takes a moment to express gratitude to his clients and followers, recounts key professional milestones, including launching a counseling center and recording wisdom-filled content, and encourages listeners to reflect on their own growth. As the year closes, Josh offers inspiring insights for the year ahead and teases exciting future projects, including updates on his book and new initiatives.00:00 Reflecting on a Lifelong Dream01:03 Navigating Challenges and Of...
2024-12-2004 minWords of WisdomWoW 142: On directions and destinationsShow notesThis episode, titled 'Words of Wisdom 142: On Directions and Destinations,' emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose and strong perseverance. Josh explains that purpose dictates direction while perseverance determines destination. Josh urges listeners to avoid quick fixes, be patient, resilient, and strive for their highest purpose through sacrificial generosity. Inspirational quotes from Shane Parrish and Theodore Roosevelt are included to reinforce these points. The episode also provides reflective questions to help listeners evaluate their purpose, standards of excellence, and actions. You are called to embrace your challenges and pursue your highest calling with...
2024-08-2103 minWords of WisdomWoW 141: On guiding principles of discipleshipShow notesn this episode of Words of Wisdom, the focus is on guiding principles of discipleship, as presented by Josh. The key points discussed include the relational nature of discipleship, which requires intentional time, patience, and love. Six guiding principles are outlined: 1) Pursue presence by maintaining a close connection with God, 2) Joyfully surrender to God's will, 3) Intentionally reflect through deep thought and community learning, 4) Embodied worship by honoring God with our physical bodies and actions, 5) Courageously connect by fostering deep, trusting relationships, and 6) Generously serve others with selflessness and humility. Questions for reflection and journaling are...
2024-08-0707 minWords of WisdomWoW 140: On false empowermentShow notesWords of Wisdom 140: On False EmpowermentIn this episode, Josh explores the concept of false empowerment and its potential pitfalls. Reflecting on experiences of pain, trauma, and rejection, he discusses how the ego can drive change in destructive ways. Josh emphasizes the dangers of weaponizing boundaries and living from a place of resentment, explaining the importance of surrendering to God for true, healthy transformation. He includes teachings from Jesus in Matthew 7 and insights from Richard Rohr to underline the value of humility, letting go, and unlearning. The episode concludes with reflective questions to...
2024-07-1704 minWords of WisdomWoW 139: On 5 reflections about love and breaking generational woundsShow notesIn this episode, Josh explores five reflections on love and breaking generational wounds. Key ideas include making the unseen visible by allowing others in, learning to connect through surrender, and the importance of receiving love to be able to give it. Josh emphasizes the complexities of love, which involves valuing, sacrificing, serving, and sometimes disagreeing. Quotes from Terry Real and Pia Melody highlight the importance of facing generational pathology and recognizing inherent worth in oneself and others. The episode concludes with reflective questions encouraging listeners to embrace God’s love, break generational cycles, and live wi...
2024-07-0303 minWords of WisdomWoW 138: On the power of presenceShow notesn this episode of Words of Wisdom, Josh emphasizes the profound impact of prioritizing time in God's presence, particularly by waking early to connect with Him. He argues that this practice can significantly enhance one's life by fostering inner peace and spiritual strength. Key points include the importance of presence before power, the focus on making God famous over personal fame, and the pursuit of worship over pleasure. The episode also features quotes from Saint Seraphim of Seraph and A. W. Tozer, and includes reflective questions to help integrate these practices into daily life.
2024-06-1903 minWords of WisdomWoW 137: On the flywheel of disconnectionShow notesBreaking the Cycle: The Flywheel of Disconnection and the Power of ConnectionIn 'Words of Wisdom 137,' Josh explores the essential role of connection in human flourishing. He introduces the concept of the 'disconnection flywheel,' explaining how disconnection from God, oneself, and others perpetuates a cycle of isolation and sin. Josh outlines a pathway to breaking this cycle through awareness, self-honesty, and authentic engagement with others, eventually creating a 'flywheel of connection' that leads to restoration and growth. Featuring quotes from Mother Teresa and Diedrich Bonhoeffer, the episode concludes with reflective questions...
2024-06-1204 minWords of WisdomWoW 136: On the ways of the wiseShow notesWords of Wisdom 136: Paths to Becoming Truly WiseIn this episode, Josh emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom as the most valuable investment one can make. Wisdom, described as virtuous skill in living, helps ensure a fulfilling and secure life. Josh provides practical advice on how to cultivate wisdom, including stopping evil, embracing good, confessing daily, reading great books, living without secrets, praying continually, expanding one’s vision of God, practicing gratitude, seeking simplicity, and serving others. Inspired by quotes from Socrates and Dorothy Day, Josh challenges listeners to reflect on how the wi...
2024-06-0502 minWords of WisdomWoW 135: On understanding addiction, Recovery Part 11 [Words of Wisdom]Show notesUnderstanding Addiction Recovery: A Comprehensive InsightIn this episode of 'Words of Wisdom,' Josh explores the complex nature of addiction and its various dimensions, including psychological, physiological, narrative, and spiritual aspects. He differentiates between habits and addictions, emphasizing the profound impact of addiction on one's life and relationships. Josh also highlights the importance of seeking help, sharing insights from experts like Dr. Gabor Mate and Patrick Carnes. Reflecting on personal control over behaviors and understanding addiction can be the first steps toward recovery and a life of flourishing.00:00 Introduction to...
2024-05-2907 minWords of WisdomWoW 134: On the paradox of crisisShow notesIn 'Words of Wisdom 134: On the Paradox of Crisis', Josh explores the four main stages of life—chaos, crisis, healing, and flourishing. He discusses how people often live in a cycle of chaos and crisis, lacking hope and resilience. Josh explains that escaping this turmoil usually involves enduring a difficult crisis, characterized by intense pain and suffering, which can either lead to deeper darkness or become an opportunity for radical transformation and spiritual awakening. He emphasizes the importance of seeking skilled discipleship and surrendering to God during a crisis. Quotes from Lorenzo Scupoli and John Ca...
2024-05-2204 minWords of WisdomWoW 133: On creativity, wisdom, and purposeful spacesShow notesIn this episode of Words of Wisdom, Josh explores the themes of creativity, wisdom, and creating purposeful spaces in our lives. Josh begins with how creativity involves collecting and connecting ideas, emphasizing the importance of developing a system to gather ideas that ignite curiosity and the necessity of consistent creation to enhance independent thinking. The conversation then shifts to the analogy of knowledge being like a seed, underscoring the idea that knowledge must be applied to be truly valuable, similar to how a seed must grow to bear fruit. Additionally, Josh touches on the significance...
2024-05-1502 minWords of WisdomWoW 132: On self-controlShow notesBuilding Self-Control: The Path to Personal ResilienceIn this episode, Josh dives into the importance of self-control using the analogy of a city wall, referencing Proverbs 25:28. He shares his personal journey of seeking God's help not just to eliminate desires but to develop self-control as a foundational character stone alongside faith, integrity, courage, love, and knowledge. Josh emphasizes that self-control is essential for withstanding life's challenges, drawing from observations of Proverbs 25:28. He discusses the defensive and protective nature of self-control, warning that a lack thereof can lead to destruction, either quickly or over...
2024-05-0803 minWords of WisdomWoW 131: On desperation for GodShow notesToday in 'Words of Wisdom 131 On Desperation for God,' underscores the importance of acknowledging our helplessness without God, drawing on the poignant plea from Psalm 130 verse 1. It emphasizes that turning to God is not a mere lifestyle choice but a fundamental need, likening it to a rebel finally surrendering to the only king who can offer true freedom. Josh highlights the infinite gap only God can bridge, bringing us from desperation to soulful rest and empowerment. It cites quotes from Richard Rohr and Augustine of Hippo, reflecting on the transformative power of God's love...
2024-05-0104 minWords of WisdomWoW 130: On the confusion of the modern world (Words of Wisdom)Show notesThis episode delves into the complex confusion of modern times, highlighting the contradictions in modern man's pursuit of rights without responsibilities, the loss of fundamental understanding of morality, and the misconceptions about relationships and truth. Through a compelling metaphor of a pilot navigating a jet fighter, it illustrates the disorientation and challenges faced by individuals and society in discerning moral truths amidst high-speed changes and secular influences. Josh quotes from Dallas Willard and Canon B. F. Westcott, stressing the impact of ideas and the diluted power of the gospel in contemporary life. It concludes with...
2024-04-2403 minWords of WisdomWoW 128: On recovering integrity [Words of Wisdom]Show notesFinding True Belonging Through Integrity.In this episode, we explore the essential connection between integrity and a genuine sense of belonging. I share insights on how lacking integrity can affect our depth of belonging and the stability of our lives, regardless of whether others are aware of our shortcomings. Drawing on my experiences with clients and referencing authors like Michael Dye and Derek Sivers, I delve into the importance of facing our failures and choosing to surrender to God as the first steps towards recovering personal integrity. The discussion underscores the role of...
2024-04-1004 minWords of WisdomWoW 127: On sexual minimalismShow notesExploring Sexual Minimalism: A Middle Path to FlourishingThis episode introduces the concept of sexual minimalism, positioning it as a middle ground between indulgence and repression of sexual desire. It discusses minimalism in the context of material possessions and online activities before delving into sexual minimalism. The approach emphasizes intentional engagement with sexual desire, aiming for simplicity, service, and holistic flourishing within a biblical worldview. Sexual minimalism is portrayed as a way to declutter the mind, improve relational intimacy, and foster discipline across life's aspects. The script includes practical questions for reflection on...
2024-04-0305 minWords of WisdomWoW 126: On internal scripts, rest, and extraordinary effortShow notesCultivating Wisdom and the Power of RestThis episode delves into the importance of being mindful of our internal scripts, the distinction between wisdom and knowledge, and the significance of being intentional in our actions. 00:00 Introduction: Embracing Wisdom and Internal Scripts00:09 The Power of Internal Scripts: Shifting Perspectives00:49 Understanding Wisdom: Beyond Knowledge01:11 The Essence of Intentionality and Meaningful Action01:51 The Importance of Rest and Solitude02:55 Reflection and Questions for Personal Growth03:34 Concluding Thoughts: The Cycle of Effort and Rest
2024-03-2703 minWords of WisdomWoW 125: On transformation through surrenderShow notesEmbracing Transformation Through Surrender to GodIn today's episode Josh discusses the profound impact of surrendering to God, highlighting how this state of surrender ensures presence, willingness, and acceptance in one's life. 00:00 Embracing Surrender: The Path to Transformation02:33 The Power of Suffering and Love03:20 Practices for Abiding in God's Presence04:48 Reflections and Questions for a Deeper Faith05:13 Closing Thoughts: The Essence of True FlourishingAbout Josh Kalsbeek, LMFT• As a Psychoherapist Josh helps people overcome their greatest struggles....
2024-03-2005 minWords of WisdomWoW 124: On transformation through suffering, Psychotherapy Series, Part 3Show notesTransformation Through Suffering: Embracing Spiritual RebirthIn this episode of the psychotherapy series, part three delves into the concept of transformation through suffering. Josh explores the idea that true transformation requires a change in thinking, feeling, and actions, but also emphasizes the spiritual and mysterious nature of change, likened to a 'spiritual rebirth' that originates from a divine source beyond the material world. Despite the efficacy of evidence-based treatment modalities in therapy, this episode underscores the indispensable role of spiritual awakening and relational processes in healing. It argues against solely focusing on ceasing...
2024-03-1305 minWords of WisdomWoW 123: On transformation in therapy, Psychotherapy Series, Part 2Show notesTransformative Healing through Therapy: Unpacking Thoughts, Feelings, and ActionsIn today's episode Josh explores the concept of transformative healing in psychotherapy, emphasizing the interconnectedness of thoughts, feelings, and actions in the process. He stresses that deep transformation is possible through the courageous application of truth and receiving God's love, underscoring the principle that our actions are rooted in our thoughts. He also highlights the importance of addressing and changing distorted thinking patterns, feelings, and actions to achieve holistic growth. Included are insights from Gabor Maté on healing and responsibility, as well as reflective q...
2024-03-0604 minWords of WisdomWoW 122: On what happens in therapy, Psychotherapy Series, Part 1 [Words of Wisdom]Show notesWoW 122: On what happens in therapy, Psychotherapy Series, Part 1 [Words of Wisdom]This episode of our psychotherapy series kicks off with Josh sharing a profound respect for individuals undertaking psychotherapy, highlighting it as a brave inward journey towards wisdom and personal growth. Josh demystifies what transpires during therapy sessions regardless of the treatment modality, emphasizing elements such as rigorous honesty, discovery, feedback, and the importance of asking insightful questions. The narrative underscores the transformative potential of therapy when combined with the intentional practice of specific skills and the pursuit of virtue. Furthermore, he...
2024-02-2811 minWords of WisdomWoW 121: On valuing the quality of your lifeShow notesIn today's episode Josh emphasizes that the worth of an individual cannot be influenced by any actions; it is irrefutably fixed in the heart of God, and no darkness of sin can erase his grace. The primary focus should be on one's own characters, such as faith, honesty, purity, love, courage, and knowledge. Our worth is fixed, the quality of our life, is not. The quality of our life and impact is determined through such virtues. Josh also discusses how righteousness and surrender to God's love leads to spiritual growth. He concludes by suggesting the...
2024-02-2103 minWords of WisdomWoW 120: On the speed of transformation [Words of Wisdom]Show notesIn this episode Josh explores the concept of personal transformation, highlighting that it requires courageous action, prayer and faith. Josh emphasizes the importance of silence and stillness for personal growth, self-reflection and a deeper connection with God. He also references works from Elizabeth Elliot and Timothy Keller, focusing particularly on the teachings from Philippians chapter four. The philosophy of peace being not just the absence of fear but the feeling of protection and the presence of God himself is explained, challenging the typical approach to overcoming negative thoughts. These insights are presented with thought-provoking questions...
2024-02-1404 minWords of WisdomWoW 119: On how to achieve victoryShow notesIn this episode, the path to victory over personal struggles is explored with a focus on surrendering control to God. Taking time each morning to reflect and surrender uncertainties and fears can lead to a more peaceful existence. It also emphasizes on waiting and resting, and suggests that true courage often involves patient waiting and listening. The episode ends with some introspective questions intended to guide personal reflection and prayers.00:00 Introduction to Achieving Victory00:18 Understanding Your Struggles00:38 The Power of Surrender01:04 The Role of Courage and Patience
2024-02-0703 minWords of WisdomWoW 118: On fighting against selfishness [Words of Wisdom]Show notesWords of Wisdom: Fighting Against SelfishnessToday's episode looks at the stronghold of selfishness and reminds us that flourishing involves shifting from vice to virtue. A key path to identify and surrender your strongholds is through intentional reflection and prayer. Focusing on selfishness, Josh suggests a structured prayer to help introspect, acknowledge, and overcome selfishness. The episode ends with inspirational quotes from The Spiritual Exercises by Ignatius of Loyola and The Little Minister by J.M. Barrie, as well as thought-provoking questions to guide reflections and prayers throughout the week.00:00 Introduction...
2024-01-3105 minWords of WisdomWoW 117: On heart-based transformationRead the full transcript of the episode and see the illustrations here.Show notesThis podcast talks about the importance of wisdom, goals, and identity in shaping one's life, referring to best-selling author James Clear's book, 'Atomic Habits'. It addresses the concepts of habits, focusing on identity-based habits. It critiques Clear's work, suggesting that it does not delve deep enough into moral, ethical, and spiritual aspects. The script emphasizes the significance of spiritual growth, loving God, and aligning one's heart with His will for holistic transformation. It guides the audience towards seeking fulfillment in God's...
2024-01-2407 minWords of WisdomWoW 116: On commitments and disciplineShow notesWords of Wisdom 116: On Commitments and Discipline.The 116th episode of the Words of Wisdom series focuses on the role of commitments and discipline in personal development. It emphasizes that the quality of life is determined by the depth of one's commitments and discipline, with disciplineship and deep prayers being tools for sharpening oneself for their purpose. The episode highlights quotes from Aristotle and Steven Pressfield on virtue and professionalism, encouraging listeners to constantly strive towards desirable habits. It concludes with some introspection, asking listeners about their habits and areas they need to...
2024-01-1702 minWords of WisdomWoW 115: On the emotional labor of silenceShow notesIn episode 115, Josh speaks about the emotional labor involved in therapies like healing trauma and grieving. He emphasizes the need to intentionally confront the suffering by stepping into solitude and silence. This process, while challenging, leads to exponential growth and maturity. Solitude is a catalyst for transformation, revealing God's word in the individual's heart during times of trial. The material concludes by urging the listener to prioritize daily periods of silence and solitude in order to live wisely.00:00 Introduction to Emotional Labor of Silence00:06 The Importance of Therapy and Emotional Work
2024-01-1002 minWords of WisdomWoW 114: On the simplicity and power of your breathShow notesSign up to hear about my book launch. Do Deeper and follow my 5 days of guided prayershttps://www.theflourishingway.co/deeperAbout Josh Kalsbeek, LMFT• As a Psychoherapist I help people overcome their greatest struggles.•Founder and CEO of Great Oaks Collective, and it's flagship program Overcome, a 10-Week virtual Intensive Outpatient Program for Christian couples experiencing sexual betrayal and addiction. www.greatoakscollective.com. • Sign up to receive my weekly email newsletter, Words of Wisdom. ---LinksAndrew Weil...
2024-01-0304 minWords of WisdomWoW 113: On the fear and courage cycleShow notesIn the podcast Josh discusses the theory of fear versus courage cycles. He explains how fear is a physiological and psychological response to perceived threats, and outlines different fear-based reactions including trying to control the threat, experiencing fear and worry, or freezing in response. He then introduces the concept of the courage cycle as a more positive and productive response mechanism, which leads to personal growth and improvement. This cycle includes responses such as taking responsibility, showing fortitude, and making self-sacrifices in challenging situations.Josh prompts listeners to reflect on their own reactions to fear...
2023-12-1308 minWords of WisdomWoW 112: On the power laws of virtueShow notesToday we explore insights into how 'power laws', often applied to investing in companies, are also applicable to personal virtues. Josh encourages investing one's time, action, and energy into cultivating virtues such as honesty, courage, love, and service. Comparing the virtues' growth to a company's growth over time, Josh suggests that the returns may not be immediately obvious but will yield significant results in the long run. You are invited to surrender to God, equating this to the ultimate investment. This analogy is reinforced with biblical quotes from Matthew 13 and the idea of virtue as...
2023-12-0604 minWords of WisdomWoW 111: On what is important over the long run. Questions, Part 5Show notesJosh imparts wisdom on determining what's essentially important over urgency, when it comes to both personal and professional growth. He emphasizes the mental model of the Eisenhower Matrix's and it's usefulness in sorting important, urgent, non-important, and non-urgent tasks, thus providing clarity and facilitating decision-making. The discussion encourages identifying practices and strategies that compound in the long run, which according to Josh, are key investments. The session ends with a call-to-action, urging listeners to actively apply the Eisenhower Matrix to effectively manage their day-to-day tasks and achieve their long-term goals.00:00 Introduction to Prioritizing W...
2023-11-2903 minWords of WisdomWoW 110: On curiosity improving your questions. Questions, Part 4Show Notes00:00 Introduction to Curiosity00:09 The Power of Curiosity00:44 The Role of Curiosity in Conversations01:15 Growing Your Curiosity01:34 Inspirational Quotes on Curiosity02:02 Questions to Foster Curiosity02:45 Practical Application of Curiosity02:52 Conclusion: The Impact of CuriosityAbout Josh Kalsbeek, LMFT• As a Psychoherapist I help people overcome their greatest struggles.•Founder and CEO of Great Oaks Collective, and it's flagship program Overcome, a 10-Week virtual Intensive Outpatient Program for Christian couples experiencing sexual betrayal and addiction. www.greatoakscollective.com. •...
2023-11-2203 min