Shows
Restoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 361 - "Faith, Trauma, and Intensive Therapy: Meet Rachel Moses"Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, Michael sits down with Rachel Moses, the newest therapist to join the Restoring the Soul team. In this heartfelt conversation, Rachel shares her fascinating journey—from growing up with dreams of being a missionary, to living in Munich, Germany with Young Life, and ultimately becoming a seasoned therapist with nearly two decades of experience. Together, Michael and Rachel delve into her background working with individuals abroad, her deep experience with trauma and intensive therapy, and how challenges like depression shaped her life and faith. Rachel opens up...
2025-08-1825 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 360 - Dr. Janelle Hallman, "Mindfulness and the Presence of God, Part 2"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."Listen to the first half of the conversation ->
2025-08-1130 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 356 - Letting Go of Control Through the Serenity PrayerWelcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, part two of our conversation with Peter Zaremba, we explore the concepts of control, powerlessness, and acceptance. Michael opens with the profound Serenity Prayer, elegantly setting the tone for discussions on letting go and embracing peace through acceptance.Our dialogue delves deep into the biblical teachings on contentment and the spiritual wisdom of the 12-step program. Peter shares his transformative experiences, discovering strength in acknowledging powerlessness and trusting a greater power. Michael breaks down the "circle of control" and explores the mental...
2025-07-1433 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 355 - Embracing Freedom: The Journey from Control to AcceptanceWelcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's thought-provoking conversation, Michael sits down with our good friend Peter Zaremba to explore the profound themes of self-confession, freedom, and the intricate dance between control and acceptance. They delve into the notion of attachment to outcomes and how this affects our mental health, relationships, and overall sense of well-being.Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, Michael and Peter discuss the detrimental impacts of turning desires into demands, which can lead to transactional relationships and emotional turmoil. The episode highlights the importance of understanding...
2025-07-0739 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 354 - Robby Angle, "The Path of Trust: Rethinking Discipleship and Grace"Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s episode, Michael welcomes friend and fellow leader Robby Angle for an engaging conversation about Robby’s new book, The Path: What if the Way of Jesus is Different Than You Thought?—a collaborative work designed to help the next generation rediscover grace, true identity, and the heart of discipleship.Together, Michael and Robby dive into how our cultural assumptions about Jesus and our spiritual journey might be missing the mark. The discussion explores why so many of us, especially young adults, get stuck striving for Go...
2025-06-2347 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 353 - Tara Owens, "Embracing the Body: Finding God in Our Flesh and Bone"Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s episode, Michael sits down with Tara Owens, author of Embracing the Body: Finding God in Our Flesh and Bone, for a rich conversation about the intersection of faith, embodiment, and the profound ways our physical selves connect us to God. Together, they explore how centuries of Christian teaching have shaped our views of the body, often separating the spiritual from the physical, and what it looks like to reclaim embodied living as part of spiritual wholeness.Tara shares deeply from her own story, reflecting on...
2025-06-1648 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 352 - Summer Joy Gross, "Attachment, Lament, and Healing"Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s conversation, Michael is joined by Summer Joy Gross—Anglican priest, spiritual director, and author of the new book, The Emmanuel Promise: Discovering the Security of a Life Held by God. Together, they dive into the transformative power of secure attachment with God, exploring how our personal histories, traumas, and life transitions shape our ability to connect with both ourselves and the Divine.Michael and Summer unpack the vital concepts of attachment theory, discuss the different attachment styles, and reflect on the power of l...
2025-06-0949 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 350 - Nate Larkin, "From Hidden Shame to Healing"Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael sits down with Nate Larkin, founder of the Samson Society and author of Samson and the Pirate Monks. Together, they take a deep and honest dive into Nate's journey—growing up in a Pentecostal preacher’s home, wrestling with hidden addictions, hitting rock bottom, and experiencing the turning point that would ultimately lead to a worldwide ministry of hope and restoration for men.Nate opens up about the impact of secrecy and shame, the role his wife Allie played in his healing, and how...
2025-05-2654 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 349 - Dr. Dan Allender, "The Deep-Rooted Marriage"Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s honest and insightful conversation, Michael sits down with Dr. Dan Allender—a renowned therapist, author, and longtime mentor—to discuss Dan’s latest book, The Deep-Rooted Marriage, co-authored with Dr. Steve Call and enriched by the wisdom and vulnerability of their wives, Becky Allender and Lisa Call.This episode isn’t just a discussion about techniques for a better marriage—it’s a candid exploration of the real, raw journey through conflict, trauma, shame, and, ultimately, transformation inside marriage. Dan and Michael reflect on how...
2025-05-1958 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 347 - Chuck DeGroat, "Healing from Within"Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this conversation, Michael is joined once again by Chuck DeGroat—pastor, therapist, and author—for an honest and hope-filled exploration of what it means to truly heal from the inside out. Together, they discuss Chuck’s latest book, Healing What’s Within: Coming Home to Yourself and to God When You’re Wounded, Weary, and Wandering.Diving deep into the heart of spiritual and emotional disconnection, the episode unpacks the journey of finding our way “home”—to our true selves and to God—especially when life’s wounds...
2025-05-0541 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 346 - Sheila Wray Gregoire, "The Marriage You Want"Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, Michael sits down with returning guest Sheila Wray Gregoire to dive into her latest book, The Marriage You Want: Moving Beyond Stereotypes for a Relationship Built on Scripture, New Data, and Emotional Health.Sheila, known for her groundbreaking research and no-nonsense approach to Christian marriage resources, unpacks the myths, harmful teachings, and outdated stereotypes that have often taken root in Christian culture. Together, she and Michael explore new, peer-reviewed data on what actually leads to thriving, satisfying marriages—and what doesn’t. They discuss topi...
2025-04-2838 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 345 - Adam Young, "Making Sense of Your Story: Healing and Freedom from Trauma"Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s conversation, Michael sits down with Adam Young—trauma therapist, host of The Place We Find Ourselves podcast, and author of the brand new book, Make Sense of Your Story. Together, they explore the profound journey of making sense of the stories that shape our lives, diving into how our earliest experiences continue to form our hearts, minds, and relationships well into adulthood.From raw personal anecdotes to reflections on faith and neuroscience, Adam and Michael unpack why true healing requires curiosity, kindness, and...
2025-04-2153 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 344 - Brian Lee, "From Broken to Beloved: A Journey through Spiritual Healing"Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, Michael is joined by Brian Lee, founder and director of Broken to Beloved, a ministry dedicated to providing practical resources for recovery from and safeguarding against spiritual abuse. In this heartfelt conversation, Brian shares his personal journey through repeated experiences of spiritual abuse and how these challenges birthed a passion for helping others reclaim their belovedness. Michael and Brian delve into the intricacies of spiritual abuse, the importance of cultivating humility and self-awareness in spiritual leadership, and the transformative power of naming and owning o...
2025-04-1451 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 343 - Michael John Cusick, "Two Kinds of Christians"Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we delve into the compelling concept of what it means to be a Christian – a question that sparks a fascinating discussion on the dichotomy between list makers and storytellers. Inspired by the insights of Dr. Rodney Reeves, Michael and AJ Denson explore themes from Michael's book, "Sacred Attachment," emphasizing the importance of moving beyond doctrines and commandments to embrace a vibrant, embodied faith. Join us as we unpack the profound invitation to experience God not just through belief but through the intimate storytelling of our...
2025-04-0753 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 341 - Exploring Lent: Spiritual Growth through Detachment and EngagementIn this episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick," we'll journey through a candid and enlightening conversation between Michael and AJ Denson. Together, they embark on a thought-provoking exploration of the season of Lent. Michael shares personal reflections on the significance of 40 days of renewal leading up to Easter, highlighting the duality of detachment and engagement that comes with spiritual practices. With vulnerability and insight, Michael opens up about the profound impact of relinquishing news apps and striving to be a "better Christian" during Lent. AJ joins in with fresh perspectives, inviting listeners to reflect o...
2025-03-2843 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 339 - John Carroll, "Dallas Willard's Legacy Through the School of Kingdom Living"Welcome to today's episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In this insightful discussion, Michael sits down with John Carroll, a key leader from the School of Kingdom Living, which is an integral part of Dallas Willard Ministries. Michael and John dive deep into the profound impact of Dallas Willard's teachings on spiritual formation and how John's journey from corporate healthcare into ministry has been shaped by mentors like James Bryan Smith. They explore how the School of Kingdom Living is designed to guide individuals into a deeper relationship with God through an 18-month program, emphasizing the...
2025-02-2831 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 337 - Michael John Cusick, "Sacred Attachment, Part 2: How We Close the Gap In Our Spiritual Life"Welcome to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this engaging episode, we dive into the profound themes of Michael's latest book, "Sacred Attachment: Escaping Spiritual Exhaustion and Trusting in Divine Love." Joined by A.J. Denson, Michael explores the deep-seated gaps between what we believe and what we actually experience in our spiritual lives. Delving into the concept of "Delta," he discusses both the distance and potential union between these gaps, drawing from personal experiences and spiritual wisdom. With references to spiritual giants like Dallas Willard and employing rich imagery of rivers meeting, Michael illustrates how healing...
2025-02-1432 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 336 - Michael John Cusick, "Sacred Attachment, Part 1: Being Held"Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's conversation, Michael sits down with AJ Denson to dive deep into the profound themes of Michael's latest book, "Sacred Attachment." Together, they explore the concept of 'spinning' introduced in the first chapter and reflect on how it symbolizes the disorientation and reorientation we experience in life's journey. Michael shares a personal childhood story that beautifully illustrates the unexpected embrace of love amid chaos, providing a powerful foundation for understanding God's unwavering love and connection. As they unpack the transformative power of love and spiritual connection...
2025-02-0727 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 335 - Michael John Cusick & Ian Morgan Cron, "The 12 Steps for Everyone"Welcome to another episode of the Restoring the Soul podcast with your host, Michael John Cusick. Today, we have the pleasure of diving into a profound and transformative conversation with Ian Morgan Cron. Ian is not just a friend to Michael but a celebrated author of books like "The Road Back to You," and his deeply impactful spiritual memoir, "Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me," as well as his novel "Chasing Francis."In this episode, we take a close look at Ian’s latest book, "The Fix: How the 12 Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation fo...
2025-01-3143 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 334 - Michael John Cusick & James Bryan Smith Discuss Sacred AttachmentWelcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today we're diving into a meaningful conversation on spiritual formation, brokenness, and divine love with our dear friend and ally, James Bryan Smith. In this episode, Michael shares deeply from his own journey of overcoming personal brokenness, including abuse, addiction, deception, and betrayal, to find wholeness through a closer walk with God. He opens up about the stark contrast between his troubled home life and the nurturing he found in visits to a cloistered Carmelite nunnery during his childhood—moments that profoundly shaped his spiritual out...
2025-01-2456 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 331 - Michael John Cusick, "Trauma-Informed Care, Part 2"Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we delve deeper into the essential principles of trauma-informed care in part two of our series. Our host, Michael John Cusick, will guide us through the various resources therapists can provide, such as handouts, whiteboard concepts, and development models, to enhance therapeutic sessions. We'll explore the profound significance of experiencing the "Four S's"—seen, soothe, safe, and secure—within a therapy context.Join us as we uncover how a trauma-informed approach not only navigates past experiences and trauma but also equips individuals to live flou...
2025-01-0435 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 330 - Michael John Cusick, "Trauma-Informed Care, Part 1"Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, we'll explore the critical concept of trauma-informed care—a term that's become widespread yet is often misunderstood. Originating from clinical and research settings and gaining broader cultural awareness, trauma-informed care prioritizes understanding the comprehensive life experiences of individuals to improve their engagement and outcomes in care settings.Michael shares personal stories that underscore the importance of this approach, illustrating the profound impact it can have on patient experiences and outcomes. We'll delve into practical ways organizations can create sensitive environments for those wi...
2024-12-2830 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 327 - Michael and Peter Zaremba, "Letting Go of Control Through the Serenity Prayer"Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, part two of our conversation with Peter Zaremba, we embark on a journey through the concepts of control, powerlessness, and acceptance. Michael opens with the profound Serenity Prayer, elegantly setting the tone for discussions on letting go and embracing peace through acceptance.Our dialogue delves deep into the biblical teachings on contentment and the spiritual wisdom of the 12-step program. Peter shares his transformative experiences, discovering strength in acknowledging powerlessness and trusting a greater power. Michael breaks down the "circle of control"...
2024-12-0933 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 326 - Michael with Peter Zaremba, "Embracing Freedom: The Journey from Control to Acceptance"Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's thought-provoking conversation, Michael sits down with our good friend Peter Zaremba to explore the profound themes of self-confession, freedom, and the intricate dance between control and acceptance. They delve into the notion of attachment to outcomes and how this affects our mental health, relationships, and overall sense of well-being.Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, Michael and Peter discuss the detrimental impacts of turning desires into demands, leading to transactional relationships and emotional turmoil. The episode highlights the importance of understanding our "circle...
2024-12-0239 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 324 - Michael John Cusick, "Discovering Lectio Divina: Ancient Practices for a Modern Spiritual Journey"Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, we dive deep into the hunger many of us feel for a more profound relationship with God. Michael opens up about his journey with spiritual practices and the struggles he faced with traditional devotions and disciplines. He introduces us to the transformative ancient practice of "Lectio Divina"—a sacred reading method that focuses on prayerful, contemplative engagement with the scriptures.Throughout this episode, Michael shares personal stories and insights on how Lectio Divina can reboot your experience with scripture, foster a deeper connection with Go...
2024-11-1624 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 322 - Julianne & Michael John Cusick, "Exploring Neurodiversity in Marriage"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 u...
2024-08-3027 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 321 - Julianne & Michael John Cusick, "Embracing the Unchangeable in the Messiness of Life"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 l...
2024-08-2324 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 320 - Rev. Dr. Dennis Edwards, "Finding Hope Through Brokenness"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...
2024-08-0927 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 318 - Dr. Janelle Hallman, "Mindfulness and the Presence of God, Part 2"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...
2024-07-2631 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 315 - Sean Seay, "Wholehearted Leadership"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...
2024-07-0542 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 314 - Sacred Attachment: Escaping Spiritual Exhaustion and Trusting in Divine LoveWelcome 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...
2024-06-2952 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 313 - Jim Smith, "The Journey of Surrender and Transformation, Part 2"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...
2024-06-2134 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 312 - Jim Smith, "The Journey of Surrender and Transformation, Part 1"Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's conversation, Michael and Jim Smith dive deep into the complex and ongoing journey of surrender and spiritual growth. Michael opens up about his own experience with the painful yet rewarding process of counseling, emphasizing that surrender is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. Jim shares his profound moments of surrender and discusses the concept as a transfer of power that can lead to a new way of being.Drawing from the insights of William James, they highlight that life's most significant...
2024-06-1439 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 311 - Sam Jolman, "The Sex Talk You Never Got, Part 2"Welcome back to "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, Michael dives deep into a conversation with Sam Jolman, author of "The Sex Talk You Never Got: Reclaiming the Heart of Masculine Sexuality." Sam’s groundbreaking book, set to release on June 11, explores the often misunderstood landscape of male sexuality, emphasizing that true sexual healing involves far more than just avoiding lust or overcoming shame. Instead, Sam introduces the concept of reclaiming innocence through awe and kindness, leading to an integrated, holistic experience of our sexuality. Michael and Sam challenge traditional perspectives, shifting the foc...
2024-06-0728 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 309 - Dr. Alison Cook, "Navigating Emotions and Faith"Welcome to "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, Michael is joined by Dr. Alison Cook, author of the newly released book, "I Shouldn't Feel This Way." Together, they delve into the complexities of emotions and how we can navigate challenging situations through daily practices. Dr. Cook's book is part of a trilogy that includes "Boundaries for the Soul" and "The Best of You."Throughout the episode, you'll hear Dr. Cook explain her practical teaching method of naming, framing, and taking action—essential steps for emotional and spiritual growth. She emphasizes the importance of ho...
2024-05-1734 minRestoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 307 - "Experience Authenticity and Connection at the RTS Men's Weekend"Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, Michael is joined by Intensive Clinical Soul Care Specialist Brian Boecker. Together, they explore the profound impact of an upcoming men’s intensive weekend in Monument, Colorado, from September 19th through the 22nd, 2024.Throughout this discussion, they unpack the essential need for men to cultivate deep connections and authentic relationships, not just with others but within themselves. Brian shares insights into the weekend designed to foster safety, vulnerability, and authenticity to address the lack of meaningful friendships many men experience. He and Michael also de...
2024-05-0636 min