Shows
The CGN PodcastA Biblical Perspective on Mental Health - with Wesley TowneIn this episode, Brian Brodersen & Nick Cady speak with Pastor Wesley Towne.
Wesley has planted two churches; he currently pastors Bayside Church in Davis, California, and he is the founder of Better Days, an organization seeking to bring hope and resources to those struggling with personal suffering and mental health.
In this discussion, Wesley shares with the story of struggling with anxiety as a young pastor, and how he found help from the Scriptures and from other Christians, as well as how he is now using what he learned to help others.
As a...
2024-07-3142 minThe CGN PodcastA Biblical Perspective on Mental Health - with Wesley TowneIn this episode, Brian Brodersen & Nick Cady speak with Pastor Wesley Towne.
Wesley has planted two churches; he currently pastors Bayside Church in Davis, California, and he is the founder of Better Days, an organization seeking to bring hope and resources to those struggling with personal suffering and mental health.
In this discussion, Wesley shares with the story of struggling with anxiety as a young pastor, and how he found help from the Scriptures and from other Christians, as well as how he is now using what he learned to help others.
As a...
2024-07-3142 min
Thrive College Podcastwesley towne: forgiveness and mental health | the battle for mental health | 2in episode 2 of our series, "the battle for mental health," we asked the questions what helps mental health and what hurts mental health?
pastor wesley shared that one of the most overlooked factors is forgiveness. forgiveness is vital in a world of relational wounds. we must learn to forgive those who've wronged us, and forgive ourselves for the mistakes we've made.
wesley towne is a pastor for Bayside Church. he is also the founder of a nonprofit called better days (https://www.betterdaysfmly.co). better days works to bring awareness, hope, and education to all things mental health + suffering.
2023-12-1235 minThrive College Podcastwesley towne: what is mental health? | the battle for mental health | 1one of the most important things to do before trying to solve a problem is to figure out what the problem actually is. so, on the first episode of our series, "the battle for mental health," we asked wesley towne to define mental health and provide practical frameworks for thinking about the problems that arise from mental health.
wesley towne is a pastor for Bayside Church. he is also the founder of a nonprofit called better days. better days works to bring awareness, hope, and education to all things mental health + suffering.
2023-12-0530 min
Better DaysTherapy & Helping Hurting PeopleHow do we help hurting people? And how do we know when to reach out for help with our mental health? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about how to help hurting people, knowing when to reach out for help, and therapy 101. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-08-1532 minBetter DaysRelationshipsRelationships are a core component to mental health. Healthy relationships can cause us to flourish. And unhealthy relationships bring us stress and pain. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about God's design for relationships, healthy traits in relationships, unhealthy traits in relationships and wisdom to navigate relationships. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-08-0828 minBetter DaysGriefGrief is a normal human response to loss and painful moments in life. Followers of Jesus should learn to grieve in an emotionally and spiritually healthy manner. What does that look like? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about the anatomy of grief, grief in the Bible and how to have a healthy relationship with grief as a follower of Jesus. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-08-0122 minBetter DaysTraumaTrauma is a popular topic in our culture. What is trauma? And how should followers of Jesus think about trauma? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about trauma in our culture, a theology of trauma, the danger of thinking that everything has a silver lining, and what not to say to someone who has experienced trauma. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-07-2542 minBetter DaysSuicideSuicide is a sensitive topic. The reality of suicide has intersected with many people’s lives. Some have thought about suicide in their deep pain and hopelessness, and others have been affected personally through losing someone they loved to suicide. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about suicide, wisdom for pastors interacting with people in pain, and finding help and hope when you feel hopeless. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-07-1830 minBetter DaysTheology of Self-CareWhat is self-care? Should followers of Jesus have a healthy theology and practice of self-care? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor discussing a healthy theology of self-care, misconceptions around self-care, and offer practices for followers of Jesus to steward their body and soul as an investment in their mental health. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-07-1129 minBetter DaysBurnoutBurnout seems to be an epidemic in western culture. Burnout is no longer the experience of a few. Burnout has become the experience of the majority. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about the anatomy of burnout, causes of burnout, what the Bible says about burnout, and how to prevent and heal from burnout. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-07-0545 minBetter DaysDepressionMillions of people are living through the reality of depression in this moment. Depression is a complex and often confusing experience. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about what depression is, why people are afraid to talk about depression, what the Bible says about depression, and healthy practices and pathways for those who are suffering with depression. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-06-2739 min
The GoodLion PodcastGetting Honest About Depression and the Christian Church - With Wesley Towne (Classic GoodLion Episode)Join Aaron and Brian as they tackle one of the hardest topics facing Christians and the church today: depression. In this honest and illuminating episode, they sit down with pastor Wesley Towne who has spent years ministering to those struggling with mental illness.This episode was recorded shortly after the tragic loss of Pastor Jared Wilson, bringing the topics of depression and struggle into sharp focus. Wesley shares openly about his own journey, helping remove some of the stigma that prevents many Christians from facing mental health issues. Aaron, Brian and Wesley tackle...
2023-06-261h 20Better DaysAnxietyAnxiety is the most prevalent mental health condition in the US. What does the Bible say about anxiety? And how can followers of Jesus navigate anxiety? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about what the Bible says about anxiety, different types of anxiety, and healthy practices for adults and kids to navigate anxiety. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-06-2043 minBetter DaysMental Health & CultureMental health challenges appear to be affecting every generation in our culture, particularly the youngest generations. Why are mental health statistics rising in our culture? And what are the causes behind these rising mental health challenges? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about current mental health statistics and trends in our culture, causes behind the rising statistics, and how we can shape mentally and emotionally healthy followers of Jesus. For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co
2023-06-1331 minBetter DaysThe Reality of SuicideSuicide is a reality for many people. Some have thought about suicide in their deep pain and hopelessness, and others have been affected personally through losing someone they knew to suicide. In this weeks episode, I talk about the reality of suicide in this current moment, and share help and hope for those who are walking through deep pain and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal ideation, please reach out for help. Here are two resources: You can call the national suicide prevention lifeline 1-800-273-8255. You...
2021-09-1417 minBetter DaysA Conversation on Trauma with Stephanie CaineTrauma is an emotional response to disturbing or life-threatening events. Trauma leaves an imprint on our lives. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine about the anatomy of trauma and how to process through trauma in a healthy manner.
2021-09-0738 minBetter DaysA Conversation about GriefGrief is an emotion that we feel when we experience a loss. What does healthy grief look like? How can we both grieve and find joy simultaneously? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation about the anatomy of grief and how to process through grief in a healthy manner.
2021-08-3110 minBetter DaysA Conversation on Emotionally Healthy Leadership with Benji Horning + Xavier BrasseurWe cannot spend our lives leading others well if we have not made intentional decisions to lead ourselves well. Emotionally healthy leadership influences the health of our internal well-being and the health of our leadership with people. What is emotionally healthy leadership? How do we become emotionally healthy leaders? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Benji Horning and Xavier Brasseur about our current journeys toward emotionally healthy leadership and what we have learned along the way.
2021-08-2440 minBetter DaysA Conversation about AngerAnger can be a confusing emotion. It is also an emotion that is often hard to navigate. What is anger? Why do we become angry? How should we think about anger as followers of Jesus? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation about the anatomy of anger and how to process through anger in a healthy manner.
2021-08-1720 minBetter DaysA Conversation on Shame with Casey ShorttShame is a powerful emotion. It can attack our identity and worth as humans created in the Image of God. What is shame? How does shame influence our lives? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Casey Shortt, a clinical psychologist, about the anatomy of shame and how to process through shame in a healthy manner.
2021-08-1042 min
Leadership Collective PodcastMental Health in the Ministry | Wayne Cordeiro & Wesley TowneIn this episode, Ted & Rob have a candid conversation with Wayne Cordeiro and Wesley Towne concerning, stress, burnout and a leader's mental health.
If you need to contact Pastor Wayne or Wesley, you can reach them at waynecordeiro@newhope.edu & hello@wesleytowne.com
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Bayside Church Davis -- davis.baysideonline.com
New Hope Oahu -- enewhope.org
2021-08-051h 05Better DaysA Conversation on Guilt with Casey ShorttGuilt is an emotion that all humans feel. We are imperfect and experience the internal sense of wrongdoing. How do we process our guilt in a healthy manner? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Casey Shortt, a clinical psychologist, about the anatomy of guilt and how to process through guilt in a healthy manner.
2021-08-0329 minBetter DaysA Conversation on Identity with Dominic DoneIdentity is not a simple topic, nor is it is a simple endeavor to understand. Identity is complex and layered. Many of us struggle with our identity, and this struggle can often shape our internal emotional and mental narrative. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with my friend Dominic Done about human identity, how identity influences us mentally and emotionally, and how to practically understand and shape our identity.
2021-07-2735 minBetter DaysA Conversation on Emotional Health with Xavier BrasseurEmotional health is a popular topic in our culture. What is emotional health? How do we cultivate emotional health? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with my friend Xavier Brasseur about the different facets of emotional health, how to cultivate emotional health, and our stories growing up in broken homes and how we have pursued emotional health as adults.
2021-07-2037 minBetter DaysSummer Session S07Welcome to Better Days Podcast, The Summer Session! This summer I am looking forward to having conversations with people about emotional and mental health. I will end each episode with a tip to practice. These tips will help you process and navigate your own mental and emotional health. I am so looking forward to these conversations. Join us next week for our first episode.
2021-07-1702 minBetter DaysHonest HopeHope is one of the most important and life giving words for humans walking through the hard moments of life. What is hope? In this episode, I discuss various versions of hope, and spend time explaining a version of hope that allows us to enter into our present experience while also believing that there are Better Days Ahead.
2021-03-2310 minBetter DaysLament, Suffering + Following Jesus 02Suffering is a universal human experience. How do we walk through moments of suffering? In this weeks episode, I talk about how lament teaches to engage with reality, have honest faith, be emotionally aware and present, wrestle with our suffering, and follow the example of Jesus who practiced lament when he faced deep pain and sorrow.
2021-03-1615 min
RENEW Grants PassThe Rest Ep. 2 “On Mental Health + Suffering” Ft. Wesley TowneWesley Towne, founder of the Better Days non profit and pastor at Bayside Church in Davis, CA joins us to talk about following Jesus in the midst of Mental Health + Suffering.
2021-03-1643 minBetter DaysLament, Suffering + Following Jesus 01Suffering is a universal human experience. How do we walk through moments of suffering? In this weeks episode, I talk about several core facets of lament, and how these truths help us to walk through moments of suffering.
2021-03-0912 minBetter DaysLament + GriefMany of us are deeply familiar with the experience of grief. Grief is an emotion that we feel when we experience loss. What does grief look like? And, what does lament teach us about grief? In this weeks podcast, I talk about the anatomy of grief and how lament encourages us to engage with loss and enter into our grief.
2021-03-0216 minBetter DaysLament + American ChristianityWe live in a culture obsessed with happiness, positivity and success. This cultural atmosphere makes us uncomfortable communicating the pain and emotions around suffering. The biblical world had a language and response to pain and suffering called lament. In this weeks podcast, I talk about what lament is, how our western culture is hindering us from processing the painful moments of life, and how lament gives us a shared language and pathway to process our pain and suffering.
2021-02-2318 minBetter DaysProcessing Our Past + Family of OriginWe all desire to feel at peace. We all want to live fully in the reality of the present. We all want a future where feel emotionally, mentally, and relationally unhindered so that we can fully engage in our relationships. Sometimes we have to process our past in order to find healing, freedom and growth for our future. In this weeks podcast, I talk about the value of processing our past, the influence our past has on our present and future, and I share a framework for processing our past.
2021-02-1616 minBetter DaysTips for Anxiety 02Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, I talk about anxiety and stress, anxiety and self-care, anxiety and relational support, and the importance of professional help.
2021-02-0916 minBetter DaysTips for Anxiety 01Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, I share my experience with anxiety, along with practices and concepts that have helped me.
2021-02-0224 minBetter DaysAnxiety, the Bible + Thought PatternsAnxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about the narratives around anxiety in Christianity, what the Bible teaches about anxiety, unhealthy thought patterns, and getting to the root cause of anxiety.
2021-01-2622 minBetter DaysUnderstanding AnxietyAnxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation around why people are feeling anxiety in this moment, the difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder, and I share some of my own personal challenges with anxiety.
2021-01-1918 minBetter DaysDepression, Stigmas + UnderstandingDepression is a widespread reality in our world. People are walking through the pain, confusion, and deeply complex experience of depression. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about the difference between stigmas vs. understanding when it comes to depression, and offer five tips to understand a person who is experiencing depression.
2021-01-1215 minBetter DaysDepression + the BibleDepression is a widespread reality in our world. People are walking through the pain, confusion, and deeply complex experience of depression. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about depression in the Bible, the mental and emotional pain that Jesus and others experienced throughout history, and how this validates us being human.
2021-01-0522 minBetter DaysDepression + ChristianityDepression is a widespread reality in 2020. People are walking through the pain, confusion, and deeply complex experience of depression. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about depression in this moment, learn basics about the experience of depression, and explain the need to deconstruct and reconstruct the conversation around depression in Christianity.
2020-12-1514 minBetter DaysProcessing a Crisis Like JesusAll of us have been walking through one of the hardest moments in modern history--a global crisis that has deeply shaped our lives. How do we navigate the effects of this moment? In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about the mental and emotional effects of this crisis on our lives, and offer four practical responses to a crisis that we learn from the life of Jesus.
2020-12-0813 minBetter DaysDon't Lose Yourself in SufferingSuffering and pain have a way of overshadowing essential parts of being human. We have a tendency to withdraw, isolate and lose our self-worth during seasons of suffering. It is easy to get so enveloped in our pain that we forget that we are still a living human. In this episode, I talk about losing ourselves in suffering, how to be fully alive in the midst of suffering, and offer some practical steps forward.
2020-12-0210 minBetter DaysTrailer 06Welcome to Better Days Podcast, Season 6. Better Days is a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and what it means to be human and follow Jesus.In Season 6, we will be exploring various topics around Mental Health + Suffering and how they relate to this cultural moment we are living through. Follow along as we find hope, help and wisdom to navigate through the mental health challenges and suffering that we face in this moment.
2020-11-3004 min
Light Church - Encinitas PodcastJesus + Emotional Health | Wesley Towne InterviewJesus + Emotional Health | Wesley Towne Interview
2020-10-1844 minBetter DaysEfrem Smith: The Pain of RacismIn Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 6, Efrem Smith shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and offers practical steps toward equality and reconciliation. Efrem is a leading voice in Christianity around the subjects of racial reconciliation and justice. Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering.
2020-09-2242 minBetter DaysKayla Johnson: The Pain of RacismIn Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 5, Kayla Johnson shares her story--her pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and her hope for change. Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering.
2020-09-1550 minBetter DaysTyronne Gross: The Pain of RacismIn Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 4, Tyronne Gross shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, how he talks to his kids about racism, and his hope for change. Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering.
2020-09-0848 minBetter DaysChrista Armstead: The Pain of RacismIn Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 3, Christa Armstead shares her story--her pain, not wanting to live, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and her hope for change. Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering.
2020-09-0139 minBetter DaysTim Johnson: The Pain of RacismIn Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 2, Tim Johnson shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and his hope for change. Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering.
2020-08-2556 minBetter DaysMichael Metcalf: The Pain of RacismIn Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 1, Michael Metcalf shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and his hope for change. Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering.
2020-08-1833 minBetter DaysTrailer 05 - The Pain of RacismWelcome to Better Days, Season 5. Most of us have a personal knowledge of human suffering. We have suffered. Someone close to us has suffered. And we all realize that suffering comes in many forms. Yet, many us have never experienced racism. Racism is a devastating form of human suffering. We are in a cultural moment where each one of us is aware of the pervasive reality of racism and the human suffering associated with it. We are living in a moment where each of us has the opportunity to learn, listen, empathize and collectively enter into the c...
2020-08-1204 minBetter DaysMaking Good When All Feels BadAll is not good when we live through moments of pain and crisis. So how do we make good when all feels bad? In this episode, I talk about finding meaning and good in the midst of pain.
2020-05-1209 minBetter DaysA Crisis + Feeling AnxiousWe are all feeling stress and anxiety during this time. How do we process our anxiety in this moment? In this episode, I talk about anxiety, why we are feeling it, what God thinks about human anxieties, and practical tips to process anxiety in a healthy manner.
2020-05-0514 minBetter DaysCoronavirus, a Crisis + Tips for LeadersBeing a leader in this moment is challenging. We are living through an unprecedented and complex crisis. The people we are leading are searching for answers, carrying various burdens, and trying to process a crisis that they have never faced. In this episode, I share 6 tips for leading yourself, your team, and the people you influence in this moment.
2020-04-2815 minBetter DaysCoronavirus, a Crisis + Helping Hurting PeopleThere are so many people struggling with pain and grief in this crisis. How do we relationally help and engage with those around us who are hurting? In this episode, I offer six tips for relationally helping people who are struggling with mental health or suffering during this crisis.
2020-04-2210 min
Voice of a Lion001. COVID SHORT with WESLEY TOWNE. He Speaks and writes on Mental health and suffering.Our guest speaks and writes on Mental Health and Suffering, and the hope we have for better days.
Directed a Bible College, and lectured in theology, hermeneutics, NT Greek, and many other subjects.
He also started a church called Ekklesia in Eugene, OR in 2008. It grew from a handful of people in a living Wesley Towne
Directed a Bible College, and lectured in theology, hermeneutics, NT Greek, and many other subjects.
Wesley also started a church called Ekklesia in Eugene, OR in 2008. It grew from a handful of people in a living room to two thousand people and two campuses in f...
2020-04-1703 minBetter DaysCoronavirus, a Crisis + Processing PainThis is a time when we are all in a vulnerable state—thinking about life, feeling a myriad of emotions, and possibly experiencing the resurfacing of unprocessed pain. In this episode, I talk about how Jesus processed human pain, and the lessons we can learn from his interaction with pain.
2020-04-1411 minBetter DaysCoronavirus, a Crisis + Emotional HealthHow do we process through the emotional disruption that we are feeling? In this episode, I talk about the importance of emotions, how our brain and body react to a crisis, and how to cultivate emotional health during this time.
2020-04-0814 minBetter DaysCoronavirus, a Crisis + Relational HealthA crisis disrupts routines, relational rhythms, and emotional capacity. This can either put a strain on a relationship or lead to greater growth and depth. In this episode, I explain how this crisis is an oppurtunity to grow in our relationships, and offer four categories of relational growth during a crisis.
2020-03-3112 minBetter DaysCoronavirus, a Crisis + Spiritual HealthWe are all living through an unprecedented crisis. This global pandemic is reshaping the way we live our lives. Many of us are feeling a little unsettled, stressed, and anxious. Life has been disrupted. How do we cultivate spiritual health in the midst of disruption? In this episode, I explain the importance of investing in what we can control, share two opportunities we have in this moment, and offer six words to cultivate spiritual health in the midst of disruption.
2020-03-2414 minBetter DaysCoronavirus, a Crisis + Mental HealthWe are all living through an unprecedented crisis. This global pandemic is reshaping the way we live our lives. Many of us are feeling a little unsettled, stressed, and anxious. How do we remain mentally healthy in this new reality? In this episode, I explain the anatomy of a crisis and offer five tips to remain mentally healthy during a crisis.
2020-03-1819 minBetter DaysJuli + Christian Wilson: Anthem of HopeJarid Wilson was a voice of hope in Christianity to so many people walking through Mental Health conditions. He shared openly about his own personal struggles with anxiety and depression. In September of 2019, Jarid passed away by suicide. In this episode, Juli Wilson and Christian Wilson share their story, their commitment to carry on Jarid's legacy, and the incredible work they are doing with Anthem of Hope—a faith-centered organization dedicated to amplifying hope for those battling brokenness, depression, anxiety, self-harm, addiction and suicide.
2020-03-1056 minBetter DaysMy Story: Leading while Suffering, 02How do you keep moving forward as a human and leader when you feel weary and numb inside? In this episode, I share my experience of coming to a point of feeling numb inside after years of suffering, and practical lessons I learned along the way.
2020-03-0314 minBetter DaysMy Story: Leading while Suffering, 01How do you lead people while you are suffering? After living through long term suffering, my wife and I learned a lot about navigating this complex reality. In this episode, I share practical lessons to help you navigate personal or family suffering while leading.
2020-02-2513 min
The Basics of Life ConversationsMental Health and the Church - With Wesley TowneIn this episode of the Basics of Life Conversations, Pastor Rob talks with Wesley Towne. In the first half of this conversation, Wesley shares his story of planting a church in Eugene, Oregon in 2008 that in five years became one of the fasted growing churches in the Northwest. In 2013, Outreach Magazine named him the youngest megachurch pastor in America. Wesley shares insights in ministry as well as the struggles of pastoring a rapid growing church and the decision that led him to step away from Ekklesia in 2018. In the second half of this conversation, Rob and Wesley discuss the su...
2020-02-1958 minBetter DaysXavier Brasseur: Fear, Insecurity + Leading All of us have experienced fear and insecurity. These are real and challenging mental and emotional experiences. How do we filter through our fears and insecurities in a healthy way, so that they do not overtake our mental, emotional, and relational health? How do we understand these concepts and not feel shame about them as followers of Jesus? In this episode, Xavier Brasseur and I talk about our own experiences with fear and insecurity, give a framework for each, and share tools to help you not be overtaken by them.
2020-02-1843 minBetter DaysDave Hughes: When Your Child SuffersSuffering is hard when you are personally facing it. Even more challenging is watching your child suffer. Today's episode is a raw must listen to story of hope amidst pain. In this episode, Dave Hughes shares his journey of watching his daughter face countless life altering medical conditions. He opens up about the challenges his family faced, what he learned from his daughter, and offers wisdom for parents who are facing the reality of watching their child suffer.
2020-02-1138 minBetter DaysWhen You Feel Like QuittingLife and leadership can be exhausting, overwhelming, and discouraging. At times we feel like quitting. However, quitting is never the right decision. In this episode, I talk about how to respond to these thoughts, and give seven steps to become practically resilient.
2020-02-0414 minBetter DaysKobe, Tragedy + Losing a HeroThe tragic death of Kobe Bryant, his daughter, and seven other victims in a helicopter accident sent our culture into a state of shock, mourning, and grief. How could this happen? How could a hero die so suddenly? How could so many young girls lose their lives in an instant? In this episode, I talk about my love for Kobe, why he was such an inspiration to my life, and share thoughts on processing tragedy and loss.
2020-01-2918 minBetter DaysHealthy Rhythms + LeadingWe live in a fast paced, frenetic, and overloaded culture. Leadership only intensifies this reality. Instead of letting the demands around us to dictate our life rhythms, we need to re-engineer our lives by proactively choosing to build our life around healthy rhythms. Healthy rhythms are life giving, and give us fuel to run the marathon of life and leadership. In this episode, I lay out four categories of healthy rhythms for life and leadership.
2020-01-2126 minBetter DaysBurnout + LeadingBurnout is an epidemic in our culture. Leaders are facing symptoms of burnout, and wondering how to navigate a path out of this overwhelming and exhausting state. In this episode, I talk about my story of burnout, explain what burnout is, and give a pathway to re-engineer your life toward a healthy and thriving future.
2020-01-1416 minBetter DaysDiane Comer: He Speaks in SilenceAll of us experience suffering. Some of us experience long term suffering. What happens when you are a leader experiencing long term suffering that reshapes your life? In this episode, Diane Comer shares her story of life altering suffering and how she found intimacy with God after losing her hearing, as well as lessons she learned through suffering and leadership.
2019-12-1841 minBetter DaysXavier Brasseur: Emotional Health + LeadingEmotional health is essential for effective leadership. How do we become emotionally healthy leaders? In this episode, Xavier Brasseur and I talk through our own stories around emotional health, discuss the anatomy of emotions, and give practical steps to becoming emotionally healthy.
2019-12-1048 minBetter DaysJesse Lusko: Burnout, Bipolar + Finding HopeHow do you navigate burnout, depression and bipolar as a leader? Jesse Lusko shares his story and the lessons he learned as he navigated burnout, depression and bipolar while leading a thriving church.
2019-12-0333 minBetter DaysHow to Support Suffering LeadersHow can we support leaders when they are suffering? In this episode, I talk about false expectations around leaders who suffer, paint a picture of the pressures they face while suffering, and give twelve ways that you can support a leader who is suffering.
2019-11-2615 minBetter DaysJohn Mark Comer: Hurry, Stress + LeadingWhen we look at successful leaders, we often view their life through the lens of idealism. We think that they have everything figured out, which is never the case. In this episode, John Mark Comer joins me to talk about leading a mega-church, facing mental health challenges and burnout, and how he reoriented his life around healthy rhythms that he saw in the life of Jesus. This all laid the groundwork for his new book, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. You can find more info about John Mark here.
2019-11-1934 minBetter DaysShame, Suffering + LeadingLeadership is hard. It comes with unique complexities. Sometimes we forget that we are human as we experience the weight of stress, anxiety, depression, and suffering. In this episode, I discuss the common struggles leaders face around Mental Health + Suffering, and the shame we feel in light of these struggles. I offer a pathway forward and deconstruct the lies of shame.
2019-11-1317 minBetter DaysTrailer 03Welcome to Better Days, Season 3. Better Days is a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and the hope we have for Better Days ahead. In Season 3, we will be hearing stories from leaders who have faced suffering or mental health challenges, and glean from the lessons they learned along the way. Throughout season 3, I will also be sharing my story as a leader suffering and the lessoned I have learned.
2019-11-0502 min
Pursuing Faith with Dominic DoneFinding Hope in Suffering with Wesley TowneDominic interviews Wesley Towne, host of the “Better Days” podcast. Wesley shares personal stories of suffering and how he’s found hope, even while navigating some of life’s most difficult circumstances.Resources:When Faith Fails: Finding God in the Shadow of DoubtPursuingFaith.orgFind more about Wesley at WesleyTowne.com. We'd love to hear from you! info@pursuingfaith.org
2019-11-0441 min
The GoodLion PodcastDepression, Suicide, and Christianity (With Wesley Towne)In the wake of pastor Jarrid Wilson’s tragic suicide, Aaron & Brian sit down with pastor/speaker Wesley Towne to have a serious conversation about depression, anxiety, and suicide within the church.Wesley Town is a pastor and speaker who is currently focusing his efforts on speaking and teaching on Suffering and Mental Health.Check out his website at https://www.wesleytowne.com, where you can book him to speak at your church and check out his podcast Betters Days (a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and what it means to be human an...
2019-09-211h 23Better DaysComplexity of Suffering as a LeaderBeing a leader or public figure and suffering has always been challenging territory. In this episode, I discuss the unique challenges leaders face when living through personal suffering or experiencing mental health conditions. I offer some encouraging thoughts that I have learned along the way. This is the final episode of Season Two, and a preview into Season Three.
2019-09-0413 minBetter DaysWhat Is Hope?Hope is an appealing word to those who are suffering. How we frame the idea of hope is crucial. In this episode, I talk about popular ideas of hope that are unhelpful, and then I explain Honest Hope--what I believe to be the true concept of hope.
2019-08-2712 minBetter DaysThe Anxious MindPatterns of thinking are formed intentionally and unintentionally. When it comes to living with an anxious mind, it is important to begin to evaluate patterns of thinking and what has formed those patterns over time. In this episode, I talk about the anxious mind, the role of prayer, and how to intentionally form new patterns of thinking.
2019-08-2116 minBetter DaysDeconstructing StigmasThere are so many false ideas about mental health + suffering. In this episode, I deconstruct a number of stigmas about mental health and suffering through the ancient story of Job.
2019-08-1414 minBetter DaysInterview with Kelli MurraySometimes we view people who are successful as immune from suffering and pain. In this episode, I interview Kelli Murray. Kelli is the owner and designer of Rylee + Cru and Quincy Mae, two successful children's clothing brands. In the midst of her success, she has faced personal pain and suffering.
2019-08-0642 minBetter DaysInterview with Dominic DoneHow should we think about our doubts? Some people demonize doubts, and others idolize doubts. But there must be a better way forward. In this episode, I interview Dominic Done about his book When Faith Fails as he offers a better way forward for our doubts.
2019-07-3032 minBetter DaysCommunicating with Those SufferingHow do we talk to people who are suffering? In this episode, I offer six thoughts about healthy communication with people who are suffering.
2019-07-2312 minBetter DaysBetter Days Q&AIn this episode, I respond to questions from Better Days listeners about Mental Health + Suffering. I answer questions about meditation, exercise, responding to someone close to you who believes stigmas, having faith in the midst of mental health and suffering, what to do if God does not heal you, and looking below the surface instead of focusing on symptoms.
2019-07-1625 minBetter DaysLife Is ImperfectIn this episode, I talk about the lie of perfectionism, how life as humans is not perfect, how being flawed is normal, and give a few thoughts deconstructing the mindset of perfectionism.
2019-07-0912 minBetter DaysThoughts about AnxietyIn this episode, I share five thoughts about anxiety. I talk about false stigmas around anxiety, false views and teachings about anxiety, and tools and help for anxiety.
2019-07-0219 minBetter DaysThoughts about DepressionIn this episode, I share eight thoughts about depression. I talk about the challenge and confusing nature of depression, dismantle some false viewpoints in Christianity about depression, and end with some hopeful words for those of you who are facing depression.
2019-06-2520 minBetter DaysBetter Days Q&AIn this episode, I respond to questions from Better Days listeners about Mental Health + Suffering. I answer questions about how to respond to guilt and irrational feelings, challenging family relationships and boundaries, anger, and is it ok for Christians to take anti-anxiety medications.
2019-06-1828 minBetter DaysAnatomy of Emotions, P 02In this episode, I talk about the anatomy of emotions. I discuss where emotions come from, the original design of emotions, and offer a construct for emotional health.
2019-06-1114 minBetter DaysAnatomy of Emotions, P 01In this episode, I talk about the anatomy of emotions. I discuss emotions and our culture, how families suppress emotions, the nature of emotions, and emotional intelligence.
2019-06-0416 minBetter DaysInterview with Hannah & RousseauxIn this episode, I interview Hannah and Rousseaux about Hannah’s long journey of suffering. We talk about the hardships of long term suffering, various challenges she has faced, and what has been helpful. Her husband, Rousseaux, shares a raw story about failing to understand her and what he has learned about loving her in her pain.
2019-05-2826 minBetter DaysBetter Days Q&AIn this episode, I respond to questions from Better Days listeners about Mental Health + Suffering. I answer questions about long term suffering, forgiving people who treat you wrong in suffering, stress in college, and more.
2019-05-2131 minBetter DaysProactive with Mental HealthIn this episode, I talk about what mental health is and how we can be proactive with our mental health. I offer practical suggestions for being proactive with your mental health.
2019-05-1412 minBetter DaysMy StoryWhat is the story behind Better Days Podcast? In this episode, I share my story and why I am passionate about being a voice for people experiencing Mental Health + Suffering.
2019-05-0811 minBetter DaysTrailer 02Welcome to Better Days, Season 2. This is a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and the hope we have for Better Days ahead.
2019-04-3001 min
Facilitate Hope#4: Leadership & Mental Health with Wesley TowneEpisode #4 of the Redeem the Dream Podcast:
Wesley Towne, founding pastor of Ekklesia Eugene. Speaker & teacher and host of the Better Days Podcast. Named America's youngest megachurch pastor by Outreach Magazine in 2013, currently resides in Southern California.
2019-04-3029 min