Shows
Courage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 54: Reimagining the Journey: Courage to Be Known with Dr. Ray MitschThe essence of this podcast rests upon the profound theme of finding the courage to be known. In this inaugural episode of the rebranded "Courage to Be Known" podcast, I, Dr. Ray Mitsch, reflect upon my own journey of introspection and the subsequent evolution of this ministry. I have come to recognize that the foundational element in fostering redemptive communities, particularly outside traditional church contexts, is the audacity to connect authentically with others. Throughout this discourse, I shall share my contemplations and the insights I have garnered from individuals who exemplify remarkable courage in their willingness to be transparent...
2025-09-2013 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 53: Revisiting Spiritual Formation: A Journey of TrustThe primary focus of this podcast episode is the exploration of the dichotomy between the old and new paradigms of spiritual formation, particularly as they relate to concepts of grace and legalism. We engage in a profound examination of the implications of embracing one's brokenness in the context of faith, emphasizing that genuine transformation necessitates trust rather than mere effort. As we navigate this discourse, we draw attention to the necessity of creating spaces where individuals who feel marginalized or disillusioned can openly discuss the complexities of their spiritual journeys. Through this dialogue, we aspire to foster an environment...
2025-06-2640 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 52: Embodying Truth: The Relationship Between Big T and Little TEngaging with the complexities of truth is the central theme of this episode of the Outpost podcast, hosted by Dr. Ray Mitsch. Through a thoughtful exploration of 'Big T truth' and 'Little T truth', Dr. Mitsch invites listeners to reflect on the ways in which these concepts intersect and influence our lives. Big T truth encompasses the enduring, universal principles found within scripture, which serve as a foundation for understanding divine reality. Little T truth, on the other hand, addresses the personal, often subjective experiences that shape our individual perspectives and emotional landscapes.Dr. Mitsch's insights are...
2025-03-1733 min
UnscriptedEpisode 20: The Seasons of Grief: A Pathway to HealingThe podcast delves into profound themes of grief and loss, as articulated by Dr. Ray Mitsch, who presents a recorded lecture originally given to the Christian Counselors Fellowship. This episode is poignantly dedicated to the memory of a dear friend whose death serves as a backdrop for the discussion on how loss can foster connections, particularly with the emerging Generation Z. Dr. Mitsch explores the unique characteristics of this generation, suggesting that the experience of grief opens up avenues for conversation that transcend typical interactions. He emphasizes that understanding grief requires a broader lens that includes not only the...
2025-03-111h 06Courage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 51: Unveiling the Matrix of Shame: A Journey Towards AuthenticityDr. Ray Mitsch elucidates the complex and pervasive nature of shame, highlighting its profound impact on our identities and relationships. He posits that shame operates as a prison for the mind, threatening our sense of belonging and connection, which are inherently vital to our human experience. This episode endeavors to differentiate shame from guilt, emphasizing that while guilt pertains to our actions, shame fundamentally concerns our very being. Mitsch draws parallels between our struggles with shame and the metaphorical concept of the 'Matrix,' suggesting that many individuals remain unaware of their own entrapment in this psychological condition. As...
2025-03-0334 minUnscriptedEpisode 19: From Formula to FaithSummaryThe central theme of this discourse revolves around the dichotomy between a formulaic approach to spirituality and the profound nature of faith. Dr. Ray Mitsch elucidates the pervasive tendency among individuals to reduce their relationship with the divine to a mere series of if-then propositions, thereby undermining the essential trust and vulnerability that underpin authentic faith. Through personal reflections on grief and loss, particularly relating to the sorrow of significant anniversaries, he explores the implications of viewing spirituality through a lens of control rather than openness to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. This examination...
2025-02-1727 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 50: Exploring the Scandal of Grace - A Reflection with Dr. Ray MitschDr. Ray Mitsch's discourse on grace navigates the intricate terrain of human emotion, spirituality, and the paradoxes that arise within the context of divine acceptance. He underscores the Outpost's role as a sanctuary for those who feel marginalized by their own perceived inadequacies. Mitsch's reflections lead him to confront the pervasive mentality of shame that often clouds our understanding of grace. He articulates a critical observation: many individuals, despite professing faith, internalize a narrative of disappointment in the eyes of God. This perspective, Mitsch argues, not only distorts one's self-image but also obstructs the genuine acceptance of grace. He...
2025-02-1040 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 49: From Shame to Acceptance - Unpacking the Power of GraceDr. Ray Mitsch embarks on an exploration of grace, a concept deeply woven into the fabric of relationships and faith. He begins by establishing the Outpost as a digital community designed to facilitate connection and understanding through the core values of authenticity, trust, grace, and intimacy. These values not only serve as guiding principles for individual interactions but also create a framework for experiencing and sharing grace in a meaningful way. Throughout the episode, Dr. Mitsch raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of grace, particularly examining why it is often perceived as scandalous or difficult to fully embrace, especially...
2025-01-2740 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 48: Beyond Platitudes - Real Talk on GriefEngaging with the intricacies of grief, Dr. Ray Mitsch joins Lisa Anderson on the Boundless Show to discuss his insightful book, "The Seasons of Our Grief: Embracing the Journey." The discussion sheds light on the prevalent misconceptions surrounding grief, particularly the linear models often referenced in psychological literature. Dr. Mitsch argues that grief is more akin to the changing seasons, each with its own emotional landscape and tasks. For instance, winter is characterized by acceptance and introspection, while spring heralds a reawakening of feelings and reflection on what has been lost. This cyclical perspective encourages individuals to recognize that...
2025-01-2339 minUnscriptedEpisode 18: Beyond Platitudes - Real Talk on Grief with Dr. Ray MitschEngaging with the intricacies of grief, Dr. Ray Mitsch joins Lisa Anderson on the Boundless Show to discuss his insightful book, "The Seasons of Our Grief: Embracing the Journey." The discussion sheds light on the prevalent misconceptions surrounding grief, particularly the linear models often referenced in psychological literature. Dr. Mitsch argues that grief is more akin to the changing seasons, each with its own emotional landscape and tasks. For instance, winter is characterized by acceptance and introspection, while spring heralds a reawakening of feelings and reflection on what has been lost. This cyclical perspective encourages individuals to recognize that...
2025-01-2237 minUnscriptedEpisode 17: Living as Is -The Path to Acceptance and WisdomDr. Ray Mitsch explores the complexities of grief and the significance of anniversaries in this thought-provoking episode. He emphasizes that facing loss and sorrow, rather than avoiding it, can lead to a deeper understanding of life and its meaning. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Mitsch highlights the difference between mere knowledge about grief and the wisdom gained from truly experiencing it. He challenges the notion that happiness is the ultimate goal, advocating instead for acceptance of life's realities, including its inevitable sorrows. By embracing our human experiences, including the pain of loss, we can cultivate genuine connections and a more...
2024-12-1737 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 47: From Stained Glass to Transparency: Embracing Our True SelvesAuthenticity is the cornerstone of meaningful relationships, as discussed by Dr. Ray Mitsch in this episode of the Outpost podcast. He dives into the complexities surrounding the concept of being genuine and the societal pressures that often lead us to present a curated version of ourselves. Dr. Mitsch emphasizes that true authenticity cannot be engineered; it emerges naturally through vulnerability and honest connections with others. He explores the role of fear and shame in hindering our willingness to be open, highlighting the importance of grace and compassion in fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to express their true...
2024-12-1130 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 46: Navigating the Spiritual Landscape of Gen Z: A Conversation with Dr. Ray Mitsch and Sarah ZylstraWhat Christians should know about Gen Z is at the forefront of this engaging conversation between Dr. Ray Mitsch and Sarah Zylstra. The episode delves into the unique challenges and perspectives of the Gen Z generation, exploring their spiritual inclinations, community needs, and the impact of social media on their lives. Zylstra highlights that while Gen Z may not identify as atheists, they often hold agnostic views, creating a complex landscape for the church to navigate. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of authenticity in relationships and the necessity for churches to create spaces where young people feel genuinely...
2024-11-0455 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 45: From Isolation to Intimacy: Building Trust in RelationshipsIntimacy is essential for growth, love, and community, requiring both trust and vulnerability. Dr. Ray Mitsch explores the profound connection between being known and the courage it takes to reveal our true selves. He emphasizes that vulnerability is the soul of love, highlighting how it fosters deep relationships and helps combat loneliness. Throughout this episode, listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences with intimacy and the choices they make in their relationships. With insights drawn from a recent silent retreat, Dr. Mitsch illustrates how stepping into vulnerability can lead to transformative connections and a more authentic community.
2024-10-2143 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 43: Forgiveness: The Hot Button Issue You Can't IgnoreForgiveness is a complex and often contentious theme that resonates deeply within relationships, particularly when hurt and betrayal are involved. Dr. Mitsch delves into the multifaceted nature of forgiveness, challenging the simplistic notion of 'forgive and forget'. He argues that true forgiveness involves acknowledging the hurt and the complexities surrounding it rather than dismissing it. Drawing on psychological insights, Mitsch asserts that forgetting past grievances can be detrimental, as it ignores the lessons learned from painful experiences. He emphasizes that forgiveness is not a mere transaction but a profound process that requires both emotional and spiritual engagement. The discussion...
2024-10-0757 minUnscriptedEpisode 2: Lament in modern life-Pt2Join Dr. Mitsch as he reflects on his own journey through grief, and examines the role that comparisons play in interrupting and disrupting the important work there is to do with our grief. Our comparisons will often rob us of the opportunity to honor the relationship we had with the person we loved. Check out Dr. Mitsch's newest book!Looking for more resources for your spiritual journey?Check out The Outpost Podcast
2024-03-2034 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 29 - The Wall: A Defining Moment in the Journey of FaithSummary The discussion centers on the pivotal experience known as "the wall," which represents a significant and often challenging juncture in one's spiritual journey. This experience is not merely a phase, but rather a profound encounter that compels individuals to confront their perceptions of faith, productivity, and self-worth. As I delve into this concept, I emphasize the importance of recognizing that one's journey may not follow a linear progression through stages, but rather involves overlapping phases where personal crises can catalyze deeper spiritual insight. We explore the emotional turmoil that accompanies this experience, including feelings of abandonment...
2024-03-1846 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 27 - Navigating the Spiral of Faith: Understanding Stage ThreeSummaryThe critical journey of faith is a multifaceted process, and in our discussion, we delve into the intricacies of the third stage, which is characterized as the productive life. This phase emphasizes the temptation to equate one’s self-worth with one’s productivity in ministry, a notion that often leads to spiritual burnout and disillusionment. I articulate the importance of recognizing that true spiritual development transcends mere activity and is rooted in intimacy with the divine. We must confront the perilous inclination to engage in ministry prematurely, thereby risking our spiritual maturity and connection with God. Ulti...
2024-03-1133 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 26 - From Knowledge to Relationship: The Journey with Dr. MitschSummaryThe primary focus of our discussion centers around the concept of the spiritual journey, particularly as articulated in the second phase, which we designate as the learning or discipled life. It is essential to comprehend that during this phase, individuals often conflate knowledge about God with a genuine relationship with Him, leading to a superficial understanding of faith. We explore the critical role of mentorship in guiding one through this intricate process, emphasizing the necessity of discerning between merely accumulating information and actively engaging in a transformative relationship with the divine. Furthermore, we address the inherent...
2024-03-0445 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 25 - Embarking on the Spiritual Journey: Insights from Dr. Ray MitschIn the latest episode of the Outpost podcast, Dr. Ray Mitsch embarks on a thoughtful exploration of the spiritual journey, commencing with an in-depth discussion of the 'Converted Life.' This initial stage of spiritual development is characterized by a heightened awareness of one's spiritual needs, often ignited by moments of awe or a deep-seated sense of inadequacy. Dr. Mitsch articulates that conversion should not be viewed as a singular event but as the beginning of a transformative process that ushers individuals into a deeper relationship with the divine. He emphasizes the significance of self-awareness in this journey, urging...
2024-02-2643 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 11: The difference between Peter and Judas?Dr. Mitsch continues his exploration of grace, and what makes it so difficult for us to accept it. An interesting parallel is drawn between two Biblical men and how they responded to the grace that was given them when they had both betrayed or denied Jesus. In many ways, we are just like those men. Dr. Mitsch talks about the the power of the voice of grace versus the voice of shame.
2023-11-1340 minCourage to be Known Podcast (C2BK)Episode 1: Recovering from toxic ChristiansIn this inaugural episode of The Outpost Podcast with Dr. Ray Mitsch, Dr. Mitsch gives a broad vision of the change from the Psych Monologues to The Outpost Podcast as well as Stained Glass International. The main focus of this podcast is examining the issue of toxic Christians, and why they have all the power that they do. What can we do to respond and even recover from such interactions?
2023-09-0447 min
The Psych MonologuesEpisode 139: Your Spiritual Journey: You’ve got to bring you with you!Continuing our series on the spiritual journey, Dr. Mitsch explores the characteristics and the issues that interfere with our growth during this part of our journey. Recognizing God as part of our lives or reintroducing ourselves to God is an important first step of the journey. What issues do we bring with us that interfere with the continuing journey with God? Listen in and find out!
2023-05-2947 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 138: Broken People of the Bible: Jesus and our shameDr. Mitsch continues the series on Broken People of the Bible focusing on the story of the a woman experiencing a 12 year hemorrhage that had marginalized her in her culture, and left her hopeless and looking for healing. She turns to Jesus, and finds a remarkable display of compassion and grace. Her story is our story struggling with shame, and our approach to God in the midst of it. How does Jesus respond that displays God's response to our shame and our need for healing? Listen and find out!
2023-05-1544 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 136: External solutions for internal problemsWe are tempted to look for external solutions for internal problems, and we meet with problems and wonder why. Dr. Mitsch explores this temptation of ours, and how much it sabotages our best efforts to manage the anxiety in our lives.
2023-05-0145 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 135: Barriers to God: AnxietyDr. Mitsch continues his series on "Barriers to God" and looks at another "a" word - Anxiety. Do you have questions about anxiety and the role that it plays in your life or others, and what impact it has on your relationship with God? Tune in and be encouraged.
2023-04-2450 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 134: Special edition: Silent Retreat#25Dr. Mitsch introduces his listeners to the importance of silence and solitude, and "pulls back the veil" on the silent retreats that he leads. Do you ever wonder what happens on a silent retreat, and what are the important issues that come up as a result? Hear it all here!
2023-04-1701 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 133: A new, ancient pandemic?In this episode, Dr. Mitsch explores a new but ancient pandemic with which we are all afflicted but act as if it doesn't exist. What is it? Listen in to find out!
2023-04-1001 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 131: Broken People of the Bible: Known demon or unknown angel?Dr. Mitsch continues his series on the broken people of the Bible with the story of the demon possessed man. He explores the implications of Jesus' interaction with the man, and how remarkably it relates to our own "demons" that we fight. Often we will choose our known "demons" over an unknown angel provided by God Himself.
"Man of the Tombs" by Bob Bennett
2023-03-2740 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 130: The Spiritual Journey: How you start really matters!Do you know how you are growing spiritually? That question is one we rarely think about when things are going well, but it's often a bigger concern when we are stuck. Dr. Mitsch starts a new series examining what the spiritual journey actually looks like, and what the challenges are when we first start out.
2023-03-2049 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 128: Broken people of the Bible: Paralyzed or stuck?Dr. Mitsch initiates a new series called "Broken People of the Bible" this week with episode 128. He takes time to breathe life into a story that many people know or with which they are familiar. Is there something here for us to learn about our own spiritual condition and what insight might the paralytic's story offer for us as we follow Jesus?
2023-03-0650 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 127: Barriers to God: AngerIt is a very common experience to be angry at God for a variety of reasons. That anger is enough to separate us from Him, but is it enough to separate Him from us? Dr. Mitsch looks at one of the key barriers in our relationship with God - our anger with Him. Where does it come from, what is the cost, and what are the steps to address it.
2023-02-2747 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 126: Two kinds of peopleWhat kind of people populate your life? What kind of person are you? Dr. Mitsch looks at a topic that is rarely discussed. When we engage friends and family over personal issues, are you likely to start your comment with a "At least..." and provide a perspective about the issue your friend is facing that compares what he/she has experienced to something far worse? What kind of people do you need in your life? Who will walk with your faithfully and consistently? This episode explores what we can do to be people who are comfortable with both a mounta...
2023-02-2045 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 125: The language of powerDr. Mitsch explores how pervasive the language of power has changed us, our relationships, and even how we think about ourselves and God. Listen to a thought-provoking podcast that will challenge you to consider changing your language from power to love.
2023-02-1357 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 124: The final crescendo: ReconciliationIn this episode, Dr. Mitsch looks at the final crescendo to forgiveness and repentance and that is reconciliation. He explores what reconciliation is and what it isn't including the key elements which are displayed in the story of the prodigal son.
2023-02-0641 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 123: Repent or say ”I’m Sorry,” that is the question!Continuing from the forgiveness episode(#122), Dr. Mitsch talks about what it means to forgive an institution like the church. He also explores what repentance actually looks like, and the differences between superficial and genuine repentance.
2023-01-3150 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 122: Forgive or forget?In this episode, Dr. Mitsch confronts and unravels the distortions and myths that we have around the aspect of forgiveness in our relationships. Both the social convention of forgiveness and genuine forgiveness are explored and explained.
Dr. David Stoop's book was mentioned in this episode and can be found here.
2023-01-2345 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 121: The key for healthy relationshipsIn episode 121, Dr. Mitsch explores the key for healthy relationships - boundaries. If you hope to have healthier relationships in 2023, then this is a great episode to start with! The three characteristics of boundaries, and the patterns that create problems in relationships are discussed and a way to concretely address boundaries throughout the year is also mentioned.
Watch the next episode on the video podcast, click here.
Subscribe to "Setting New Boundaries".
2023-01-1058 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 120: Connecting or correcting?To begin a new year with The Psych Monologues, Dr. Mitsch takes on the issues in relationship between the generations that include whether or not we will connect with another person, or just simply focus on how they think. Also, check out the new video podcast that can be found here.
2023-01-0358 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 119: NOT home for the holidaysDr. Mitsch tackles both an important but also painful subject that people often experience around the holidays - grief. While many sing gleefully about "home for the holidays" there are those in our world (and maybe us) who don't feel the same way about the holidays because they just remind us who is NOT there. While the topic sounds like a "downer" for the holidays, it's important to give a voice to those who are experiencing grief with the absence of important people in their lives.
2022-12-1958 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 118: The comfort of shameDr. Mitsch tackles a very familiar topic not only from his career in helping people, but also his teaching career. He tackles the issue of how comfortable shame is for us. Shame is an underestimated but overly familiar feature of most of our relationships with ourselves and with others. Without a clear understanding of it, we can do little to live fully in the grace that God offers us.
2022-12-1250 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 117: Knowing, being, and doingDr. Mitsch takes time out to talk about three different aspects of our functioning. What we know, what we do, and who we are. Our emphasis in each of these areas has everything to do with how we relate to Jesus, to others, and even to ourselves. Join in to the exploration of understanding how our beings directly influences how we know, and what we do.
2022-12-0543 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 116: Accepting grace?Dr. Mitsch dives into a topic that we love to talk about, but struggle to live with any degree of authenticity. How are you at accepting grace in your life?
2022-11-0743 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 115: Our disintegrated livesDo you live life in an integrated or disintegrated way? What does that even mean? Why is it all that important. Listen further as Dr. Mitsch takes this podcast to highlight the cost of living disintegrated lives, and the potential benefits of seeking integration in our lives and relationships.
2022-10-3153 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 114: Learning from a dogStrange title, right? Dr. Mitsch takes some time to reflect on his relationship with a new golden in his home, and the parallels he sees in his relationship with the dog and his relationship with God. We are surrounded by lessons to be learned even from our animals that include learning about grace, love, and presence.
2022-10-2454 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 113: ”I know but...”Dr. Mitsch has an exciting announcement to share about the ministries of Stained Glass International, and "pulls back the veil" on the silent retreats that he leads for Next generation Christians.
2022-10-1743 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 112: Mystery and trustMystery. The funny thing about the word is that is evokes the very thing it purports to describe. The word itself prompts one to experience mystery is what it actually means for the Christian life journey. Dr. Mitsch takes some time to talk about the importance of mystery not because it exists in our world, but because of what it is calling us to experience. Listen in and find out the connection between mystery and trust!
2022-10-1039 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 111: Broken and...Dr. Mitsch takes a moment out of schedule of topics to reflect on how grief has a way of revealing our expectations on loss, and how we typically respond to it. After the loss of his trusty companion, Koda, he reflects about his loss and the important aspect of grief that all listeners can relate to. It is sobering, enlightening, and encouraging all at the same time. Our call to connection is... "be here now."
2022-10-0341 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 110: Why integrity?Do you value integrity in your life? If so, why? Dr. Mitsch takes some time this episode to look more closely at this quality of people and consider why it is so important. What does it mean? What will we lose if we seek it? What do we gain? These are just some of the questions that are addressed in this week's episode of The Psych Monologues.
2022-09-1954 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 109: Acceptance or resignationWhy is acceptance so hard for us to do? What are the obstacles that get in our way? Why is it so important for our ability to change? This are a few of the questions Dr. Mitsch attempts to answer in our quest to engage our spiritual journey fully.
2022-09-1251 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 108: Deconstruction, reconstruction, or demolition?Dr. Mitsch takes some time to look more deeply into the motivations, the movements within the deconstruction of one's faith, and what happens on the other side of that process.
2022-09-0549 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 107: Either/or OR both/and?Dr. Mitsch proposes a provocative question: do you engage your world with either/or thinking or both/and thinking? What's the difference between those, and why is it important in our thinking about ourselves, God, or others?
2022-08-2943 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 106 - OrthocardiaDr. Mitsch introduces a new word for your vocabulary, and a challenge to consider how to participate in the transformation of your own heart that leads to a life(beliefs and practices) that matches and is guided by a whole heart.
2022-08-2241 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 105: Farewell to the shadowlandsDr. Mitsch returns to the microphone after a summer hiatus to discuss the reality of the fact that we all live in the shadowlands, and how it feels when we bid someone we love good-bye. There are a variety of things to learn and reflect on about the shadowlands we live in and what kind of people we will be as we experience life with both losses and joys.
2022-08-1639 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 104: Best of series: The comfort of punishmentWhy are we so committed to punishment as the primary means of change in our spiritual development? Dr. Mitsch explores how this has developed in us, and the key strategies we seem to be committed to in changing our behavior. He also explores how to embrace the grace that is our antidote to shame and punishment.
2022-06-2148 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 103: Real, right, or both?When you are interacting with another person, are you more prone to look for the "right" answer, or the "real" answer? Dr. Mitsch explores how the true path of spiritual journey can be found in living in real time with others, ourselves, and God and that is the "right" path.
2022-06-0634 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 102: Generating joy or experiencing it?Dr. Mitsch asks the question, "Do you generate joy, or experience it?" So often, we feel compelled to focus on "positive thoughts" in our denial of the reality in which we live. Is there a way to live with reality as it is while opening ourselves to experiencing joy as it is revealed to us?
2022-05-2338 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 101: What God do you worship?Dr. Mitsch asks the penetrating question: What God do you worship? The God you talk about, or the one you actually relate to? We often split our relationship with God by talking about Him one way, and then relate to Him another way.
2022-05-0937 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 100: Psych Monologues RetrospectiveJoin Dr. Mitsch as he looks back over two years of The Psych Monologues podcast. From the earliest episodes which were motivated to keep in contact with his graduating students affected by the global pandemic, to today and a podcast committed to the intersection of faith, psychology and spiritual formation. Listen again to the most downloaded episodes over the 100 episode history!
2022-05-0253 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 98: The comfort of punishmentWhy are we so committed to punishment as the primary means of change in our spiritual development? Dr. Mitsch explores how this has developed in us, and the key strategies we seem to be committed to in changing our behavior. He also explores how to embrace the grace that is our antidote to shame and punishment.
2022-04-1848 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 96: The distortion of obedienceSo, what do you think of when you hear the word obedience? I bet you haven't thought of what has happened in modern Christian-thinking and even in our larger culture in regards to obedience. Dr. Mitsch examines what has been left out of our understanding of obedience in our relationship with God.
2022-04-0441 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 95: Boundaries and Spiritual FormationWhat do boundaries have to do with relationships with yourself, God, or others? Does it have any relevance to my spiritual development? These are a couple of questions Dr. Mitsch tackles as he explores the importance of good boundaries as we seek to develop healthy relationships with others and with God.
2022-03-3048 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 94: What our insecurities revealDr. Mitsch takes time to explore the thing we hate the most - our insecurities. What can our insecurities tell us, and how can they lead us into a deeper relationship with others and with Jesus?
2022-03-2237 minThe Psych MonologuesEpisode 93: The importance of lamentWhat do you think of when you hear the word lament? For most people, they may have never heard it before. Dr. Mitsch focuses his thoughts and observations on the importance of lament in our lives to gain greater ownership of ourselves, and greater connection with others.
2022-02-2842 min