Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick
Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick is a podcast that helps people become whole by cultivating deeper connection with God, self, and others. Hosted by Michael John Cusick, it explores topics related to spiritual growth, emotional health, and relational healing. The show aims to guide listeners toward a more integrated and fulfilling life.
Episodes
Episode 408: SOUL CARE SUMMER - Brad Jersak, "The God Who Never Looks Away"
As part of our Soul Care Summer, we're revisiting a conversation that's stayed with many listeners. Somewhere along the way, many of us picked up the idea that God can only look at us through gritted teeth, or worse, has to look away. Brad Jersak joins Michael to gently dismantle that picture, showing that the ache of feeling far from God was never God's doing.The conversation moves
Episode 407: SOUL CARE SUMMER - Curt Thompson, "The Look That Sees You"
Michael continues his conversation with Dr. Curt Thompson, picking up where last week left off. There's a tender ache running underneath the neuroscience here — the ten-year-old boy on a summer evening, looking for permission to just be a kid, and the mother who couldn't see it. Most of us carry some version of that missed look, and Curt names how the body remembers what the mind can&apo
Episode 406: SOUL CARE SUMMER - Curt Thompson, "You are Dirt and Breath"
You were made for beauty and goodness. You feel that, even on the hardest days. What neuroscience is beginning to show us is that this longing isn't incidental. It's written into the architecture of how you were made.In this conversation, psychiatrist and author Curt Thompson opens up the world of interpersonal neurobiology and what it has to do with the soul, how the mind is not the bra
Episode 405: SOUL CARE SUMMER - Chuck DeGroat, "The Nine Faces of Narcissism"
Most people picture narcissism as loud, obvious, and easy to spot. The research says otherwise — and so does the Enneagram.In this second conversation with Chuck DeGroat, Michael and Chuck work through all nine Enneagram types and the unique way narcissism hides inside each one: the nine's quiet, invisible anger; the two's helpfulness that quietly demands to be needed; the three's s
Episode 404: Brian Zahnd, "Why Heaven Has Gone Missing from the Church"
There are at least three wrong ways to write about heaven, and Brian Zahnd spent his new book carefully avoiding all of them — too sentimental, too sensational, too escapist to bother caring about the world right in front of us.In this conversation, Brian and Michael talk about why heaven isn't a far-off destination but a realm woven through the space between every atom of this one, and why l
Episode 403: SOUL CARE SUMMER - Sheila Wray Gregoire, "The Great Sex Rescue"
For decades, the church's answer to struggling marriages has been clear: pray more, submit more, give him what he needs. Sheila Wray Gregoire's research asked a different question: What if the advice itself is the problem?Drawing on a survey of 20,000 women, the largest ever done on Christian women's marital and sexual satisfaction, Sheila lays out what the data actually shows: a st
Episode 402: SOUL CARE SUMMER - Aundi Kolber, "Try Softer, Part 2"
We can know we are loved and still not be able to let it in. The gap between believing something and feeling it in the body is not a faith problem — it's a physiological one.In this second conversation with Aundi Kolber, Michael and Julianne press deeper into what it actually takes to change: why being loved is not just a comfort but a biological prerequisite for growth, why asking someone to
Episode 401: SOUL CARE SUMMER - Aundi Kolber, "Try Softer, Part 1"
Most of us were taught, somewhere along the way, that the answer to pain is to push through it. Try harder. White-knuckle it. And for a long time, that worked — until it didn't.Aundi Kolber wrote Try Softer as a love letter to her younger self, and in this conversation with Michael and Julianne Cusick, she unpacks what it actually means to pay compassionate attention to your own experience —
Episode 400 - Dr. Gary Chapman, "The Love Language That Matters Most"
Most people who know the five love languages have tried speaking their partner's language — and wondered why it still isn't working. The problem usually isn't the language. It's something underneath it.Dr. Gary Chapman returns with new research showing how personality, empathy, and the subtle dialects within each love language determine whether love actually lands. In this conv
Episode 399 - Ken Shigematsu, "How To Become Yourself"
Shame doesn't only live in the dark corners of a broken life. It lives just as quietly in the person everyone else envies — the one who has achieved everything and still wakes up feeling like it isn't enough.Ken Shigematsu grew up moving between Japan, England, and Canada, carrying the weight of a shame-and-honor culture that most Western theology never addresses. In this conversation, h
Episode 398 - Michael John Cusick, "The Temptation of Jesus and Your Attachment"
Most people assume temptation is about weakness or willpower. But the wilderness story in Matthew 4 reveals something far older — evil moves first against the places where we have not been seen, soothed, safe, and secure.In this conversation, Michael and AJ Denson walk slowly through the baptism and temptation of Jesus, presenting them as a portrait of attachment under siege. They explore how the
Episode 397 - Geoff Holsclaw, "Your Attachment Style Shapes How You See God"
Most people assume their distance from God is a faith problem. It may be something older — a pattern in the nervous system, learned long before you had words for it, that quietly shapes how close you let God come.Dr. Geoff Holsclaw and his wife Cyd spent years watching people plateau spiritually and realized the stall wasn't theological — it was relational. This particular conversation with M
Episode 396 - Liz Hall, "Find Meaning In Suffering"
Dr. Liz Hall is a psychologist and professor at Biola who, at 45, was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer — and discovered that her training had barely prepared her for it. She joins Michael to talk about her book When the Journey Hurts, co-written with theologians Kelly Kapic and Jason McMartin, and what a decade of research and lived suffering taught her about meaning, faith, and staying huma
Episode 395 - Jay Stringer, "How Our Deepest Longings Shape Love, Healing, and Transformation"
Welcome back to the Restoring the Soul podcast with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael sits down with licensed therapist, author, and researcher Jay Stringer for a deep and vulnerable conversation exploring the core desires that shape our lives. Together, they unpack themes from Jay Stringer’s latest book, Desire: The Longings Inside of Us and the New Science of How We Love, Heal, and G
Episode 394 - 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
Episode 393 - Safe and Secure: Attachment Styles, Boundaries, and Spiritual Healing
Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael John Cusick and AJ Denson continue their exploration of the “four S’s” of attachment—seen, soothed, safe, and secure—focusing today on the final S: secure. Together, they dive into the meaning of secure attachment, both psychologically and spiritually, and how it’s reflected in our relationships with God and othe
Episode 392 - Michael John Cusick, "Understand Safety and Boundaries in Attachment Relationships"
Welcome to the Restoring the Soul podcast with Michael John Cusick. In today's episode, Michael and A.J. Denson continue their deep dive into the four S's of attachment: Seen, Soothed, Safe, and Secure. Drawing from the work of Dr. Dan Siegel and integrating insights from neuroscience, psychology, and spiritual formation, they explore how our early relationships shape not only our emotio
Episode 391 - Ericka Anderson, "Freely Sober: Exploring Christian Perspectives on Alcohol"
On this episode of Restoring the Soul, we’re joined by Ericka Anderson, author of Freely Sober: Rethinking Alcohol Through the Lens of Faith. Together, Michael and Ericka open up a thoughtful and grace-filled conversation about the complexities of alcohol use among Christians and the personal journey of overcoming dependence.Ericka Anderson shares candidly about her own struggles with alcohol, the
Episode 390 - Mark Batterson, "Gradually Then Suddenly"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this conversation, Michael sits down with Mark Batterson, the celebrated pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., and multi-time New York Times bestselling author. Together, they dive deep into the inspiration and lessons behind Mark’s latest book, "Gradually Then Suddenly: How to Dream Bigger, Decid
Episode 389 - Jay Stringer, "The Civil War of Desire: Exploring Longings, Growth, and Healing"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, Michael is joined by author and therapist Jay Stringer for a deep and vulnerable conversation about his newest book, "Desire: The Longings Inside Us and the New Science of How We Love, Heal, and Grow." Together, they explore the civil war of desire that shapes our lives—how our deepest longings birth both o
Episode 388 - Michael John Cusick, "Exploring Sacred Attachment: Parenting, Healing, and Connection"
Welcome back to the Restoring the Soul podcast with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael and AJ Denson dive deeper into the transformative concepts from Michael’s book, Sacred Attachment: Escaping Spiritual Exhaustion and Trusting Divine Love. Picking up where they left off, the conversation centers on the “Four S’s” of attachment—Seen, Soothed, Safe, and Secure—and explores how these ele
Episode 387 - Michael John Cusick, "Exploring Sacred Attachment: Seen, Soothed, Safe, and Secure"
Welcome back to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's conversation, Michael is joined by AJ Denson as they dive into the foundational building blocks of healthy relationships and spiritual well-being—the "Four S's" of attachment: seen, soothed, safe, and secure.Picking up from their previous conversation on Attachment Neuroscience and the Tr
Episode 386 - Michael John Cusick, "Exploring Sacred Attachment: The Trinity, Neuroscience, and Experiencing Divine Love"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today’s conversation dives deep into the heart of spiritual growth, as AJ Denson returns to interview Michael about his award-winning book, Sacred Attachment, Escaping Spiritual Exhaustion and Trusting in Divine Love.The episode explores Chapter 3, focusing on attachment theory and its profound connection to both psychology
Episode 385 - Julianne & Michael John Cusick, "Navigating Trauma and Healing in Neurodiverse Relationships"
Welcome back to “Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick.” In today’s episode, Michael John Cusick and Julianne Cusick dive deep into the world of neurodiversity, focusing on the unique challenges faced by couples where one partner is neurodivergent, often navigating undiagnosed autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or related conditions. Drawing on both personal experience and extensive clinical wor
Episode 384 - Julianne & Michael John Cusick, "A Deeper Look Into Neurodiverse Marriages"
Welcome back to the Restoring the Soul podcast with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael sits down for a thoughtful and deeply personal conversation with his wife of nearly 35 years, Julianne Cusick. Together, they explore the emerging world of neurodiversity, focusing on neurodivergent individuals, neurodiverse couples, and the impact these differences can have on relationships.Drawing f
Episode 383 - Christine Wolf Hoover, "Soul Adventuring: Embracing Bravery, Joy, and Healing"
Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's episode, Michael sits down with Christine Wolf Hoover, a licensed professional counselor from Texas and author of "Soul Adventuring: Your Guide to Living with Bravery and Joy." Together, they explore the idea that our faith journey is an invitation into risk, bravery, and joy, not just a checklist of spiritual p
Episode 382 - "Transformational Weekend for Men"
Welcome back to the Restoring the Soul podcast with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael is joined by two longtime friends and fellow journeyers, Justin and Aaron, who share their transformative experiences at the Restoring the Soul Men’s Intensive Weekend.Together, the trio dives into what makes this weekend so different from the average men’s retreat. From the healing power of anonymity
Episode 381 - Alan Fadling, "A Non-Anxious Life: Experiencing the Peace of God's Presence"
Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, Michael welcomes back his friend, author and spiritual leader Alan Fadling, to dive into themes from Alan’s book, "A Non-Anxious Life." Together, they explore what it means to live with peace in a world gripped by anxiety, unpacking Alan’s personal journey from being "a master of anxiety&qu
Episode 380 - Michael & Julianne Cusick, "Deep Dive Into Intensive Counseling"
Welcome back to Restoring the Soul! In this episode, Michael John Cusick and Julianne Cusick dive deep into the world of intensive counseling, unpacking what makes Restoring the Soul’s approach unique and transformative. You’ll hear about the practical structure of their intensives—meeting with individuals and couples in three-hour blocks over one or two weeks—and what sets this method apart from
Episode 379 - Dr. J.R. Briggs, "The Art of Asking Better Questions"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s conversation, Michael is joined by Dr. J.R. Briggs, author of the book The Art of Asking Better Questions: Pursuing Stronger Relationships, Healthier Leadership and Deeper Faith. Together, they explore why the questions we ask—of God, ourselves, and each other—are so central to personal transformation, deep conne
Episode 378 - 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 an encore presentation featuring a conversation between our host, Michael John Cusick, and 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&apos
Episode 377 - Bette Dickinson, "The Art of Vinemaking"
Welcome to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael welcomes back Bette Dickinson to dig into the wisdom behind her new book, "The Art of Vine Making: Spiritual Flourishing in a Productivity Driven Culture." Together, they explore the rich metaphor of the vine and branches from John 15—not just as a theological concept, but as an intentional, relational proce
Episode 376 - 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 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 memoir, "Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me," as well as his novel "Chasing
Episode 375 - Tony Kriz, "From Trauma to Triumph: Literacy's Role in Healing"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s discussion, Michael welcomes Tony Kriz to the podcast. This episode dives deep into crucial topics, including the impact of trauma on children's development, the importance of supportive adults in their lives, and how churches and communities can foster positive change through active involvement.You'll
Episode 374 - Dr. Alison Cook, "Boundaries for Your Soul"
Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we're diving deep into the conversation around emotional health, spiritual formation, and the journey toward wholeness with our special guest, Dr. Alison Cook, psychologist, author, and expert in Christian spiritual and emotional integration.In this episode, Michael and Alison explore her acclaimed b
Episode 373 - Dr. Camden Morgante, "Recovering from Purity Culture"
Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, Michael sits down with Dr. Camden Morgante, licensed clinical psychologist and author of "Recovering from Purity Culture." Together, they dive into the real impact of purity culture within evangelical communities, exploring the myths and messages that have shaped so many lives, often with shame
Episode 372 - Drew Boa, "Outgrow Porn: Lasting Freedom from Sexual Compulsion"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul. Today, Michael John Cusick is joined by author, speaker, and men's group leader Drew Boa to discuss Drew’s groundbreaking new book, Outgrow Porn: Find Lasting Freedom Without Fighting an Exhausting Battle.This conversation dives deep into breaking free from pornography—not through more willpower or "white-knuckling," but by truly hea
Episode 371 - "Belonging to Become: Exploring the Deepest Longing of the Human Heart"
Welcome to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. On today’s episode, Michael sits down with fellow intensive therapist Brian Boecker for an honest, heartfelt conversation about the universal human longing to belong. Inspired by Michael’s recent talk at the Connections Conference in Washington, D.C., the discussion explores how belonging shapes our sense of self, impacts our relationships, a
Episode 370 - 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 bringin
Episode 369 - John Eldredge, "Experience Jesus. Really."
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s conversation, Michael is joined by returning guest and renowned author John Eldredge, known to many as the author behind the bestselling book Wild at Heart. This time, John dives deep into the message of his latest book, Experience Jesus. Really. Together, Michael and John unravel the life-changing invitation to
Episode 368 - Discovering Lectio Divina: Ancient Practices for a Modern Spiritual Journey, Part 2
Welcome to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s episode, Michael guides us through the ancient and transformative practice of Lectio Divina, or "sacred reading"—a gentle, four-step approach to engaging scripture that moves beyond intellectual study and invites deeper communion with God. Drawing on his own journey and experience with this practice, Michael unpacks each
Episode 367 - 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 readi
Episode 366 - James Bryan Smith, "Integrating Faith and Psychology"
Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's conversation, Michael sits down with James Bryan Smith to dive deep into the beautiful interplay between faith and psychology. Throughout this dialogue, they explore how spiritual formation and mental health are more intertwined than ever. You'll hear powerful anecdotes about moments that re
Episode 365 - Ashley Opliger, "Cradled in Hope: Trusting Jesus Through Infant Loss"
Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s episode, Michael sits down with Ashley Opliger, author of the new book Cradled in Hope: Trusting Jesus to Heal Your Heart as He Holds Your Baby in Heaven. This deeply moving conversation explores Ashley’s personal journey through the heartbreak of miscarriage and infant loss, and how her grief led to unexpected hope and purpos
Episode 364 - Drs. Bill & Kristi Gaultiere, "Deeply Loved: The Power of Empathy"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s conversation, Michael sits down with Drs. Bill and Kristi Gaultiere—psychologists, spiritual directors, and founders of Soul Shepherding—to explore the transformative power of empathy in the Christian life. Together, they dive into the heart behind Bill and Kristi’s newest book, Deeply Loved: Receiving and Reflec
Episode 363 - 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, explores the often misunderstood landscape of male sexuality, emphasizing that true sexual healing involves far more than ju
Episode 362 - Sam Jolman, "The Sex Talk You Never Got, Part 1"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, our special guest is Sam Jolman, author of the book, "The Sex Talk You Never Got: Reclaiming the Heart of Masculine Sexuality."In this episode, Michael and Sam explore the genesis of Jolman's book and the pivotal discussions that underpin men's sexual health and well-being. Learn about the distinc
Episode 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
Episode 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 to
Episode 359 - Alan Kraft, "The Intimate God, Part 2"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Joining Michael is Alan Kraft, who will delve into the spiritually nourishing practice of scripture meditation and its power to let the Holy Spirit speak directly to our hearts.In today's episode, titled "The Intimate God," Alan unravels his spiritual trifecta — stillness, prayer, and scripture — to cultivate
Episode 358 - Alan Kraft, "The Intimate God, Part 1"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul. Alan Kraft is joining Michael on today's podcast. Alan has served as lead pastor of Christ Community Church since 1990. He is passionate about teaching, writing, and prayer to help people experience Jesus in transformative ways. He holds an MDiv degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.Alan and his wife Raylene live in Greeley, Colorado
Episode 357 - Dr. Janelle Hallman, "Mindfulness and the Presence of God, Part 1"
Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we welcome Dr. Janelle Hallman back to the podcast. Janelle serves on the team at Restoring the Soul and is a Licensed Professional Counselor, ordained minister, professor, author, and speaker on issues such as redemption, healing, and wholeness. Janelle has taught courses at Colorado Christian University
Episode 356 - 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 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 in
Episode 355 - 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, rel
Episode 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 Rob
Episode 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 b
Episode 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,
Episode 351 - Dr. Janelle Hallman, "Embodied Healing and Authentic Connection"
Welcome back to the Restoring the Soul podcast with Michael John Cusick. In today’s episode, Michael sits down in the studio with Dr. Janelle Hallman, a seasoned intensive therapist at Restoring the Soul and a longtime friend and colleague. With decades of experience leading therapy intensives, groups, and workshops around the world, Janelle shares powerful insights from her work, especially her p
Episode 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
Episode 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 episo
Episode 348 - Michelle Keener, "Comfort in the Ashes: Job, Trauma, and Healing in the Church"
On today’s episode of Restoring the Soul, Michael sits down with Dr. Michelle Keener, biblical scholar and author of the new book Comfort in the Ashes: Explorations in the Book of Job to Support Trauma Survivors. In this compelling conversation, Michelle shares the personal story and scholarly journey that led her to explore the Book of Job through the lens of trauma theory. Together, Michael and
Episode 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
Episode 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, unpac
Episode 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 conti
Episode 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
Episode 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 Attach
Episode 342 - Aimee Byrd, "Finding Hope after Facing Spiritual Abuse"
Welcome to another episode of the "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick" podcast. We're excited to welcome Aimee Byrd, a renowned author and theologian, to discuss her latest book, "Saving Face: Finding Myself, God, and One Another Outside a Defaced Church." Join Michael and Aimee as they dive deep into the pages of her profound work, unpacking themes of vulnerabili
Episode 341 - Exploring Lent: Spiritual Growth through Detachment and Engagement
In 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 enga
Episode 340 - Dr. Andrew Bauman, "Safe Church: Addressing Misogyny and Abuse in Christian Communities"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. On today's episode, host Michael is rejoined by Dr. Andrew Bauman, a passionate advocate for creating healthier church communities and an illuminating voice on overcoming personal and systemic abuse. In this engaging conversation, they delve into Andrew's powerful journey, exploring the roots and revelations that
Episode 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 journe
Episode 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 concep
Episode 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 reo
Episode 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,&qu
Episode 334 - Michael John Cusick & James Bryan Smith Discuss Sacred Attachment
Welcome 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 th
Episode 333 - Curt Thompson, "Sacred Attachment"
Welcome back to another episode of Restoring the Soul. In today's special episode, we flip the roles a bit as Curt Thompson graciously takes the lead to explore the profound impact of Michael's new book, Sacred Attachment. Drawing from their personal stories, deep professional insights, and the latest in attachment theory, Curt and Michael delve into the book's central themes of spi
Episode 332 - Alan Fadling, "An Unhurried Life, A Year of Slowing Down"
Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we're diving into a profound conversation with Alan Fadling, author of the the devotional book, "A Year of Slowing Down: Daily Devotions for Unhurried Living."In this episode, Michael and Alan explore the necessity and impact of integrating brief, intentional moments of reflection into our
Episode 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 exp
Episode 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 e
Episode 329 - Meredith Phipps, "Yoga Therapy and Trauma Recovery"
In this captivating episode of Restoring the Soul, Michael John Cusick connects with Meredith Phipps, a dedicated yoga therapist with a passion for integrating faith and wellness. Meredith shares her profound journey from discovering yoga amidst personal healing to becoming a certified yoga therapist with a focus on trauma recovery. Throughout the conversation, Meredith addresses common Christian
Episode 328 - Tony Kriz, "From Trauma to Triumph: Literacy's Role in Healing"
Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s discussion, Michael welcomes Tony Kriz to the podcast. This episode dives deep into crucial topics, including the impact of trauma on children's development, the importance of supportive adults in their lives, and how churches and communities can foster positive change through active involvement.You'll
