Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick

Latest Episodes:

Episode 317 - Dr. Janelle Hallman, "Mindfulness and the Presence of God, Part 1" Jul 19, 2024

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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. She has a profound expertise in trauma, sexuality, and personal transformation. In today's conversation, Dr. Hallman takes us on a journey through the power of mindfulness as a fundamental way of being, far beyond mere stress reduction. She also shares how her love for birdsong led her to embrace mindfulness and teach others to find relaxation in nature's melodies. Together with Michael, they explore the benefits of practicing the presence of God and being truly present and how these spiritual practices can rewire our brains and reduce reactivity.

So, whether you're struggling to embody the tenets of your faith in daily life or looking for a deeper connection with your inner self and the world around you, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical wisdom. Let's embark on this journey of restoring the soul with mindfulness and presence.

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Episode 316 - Dr. Christy Bauman, "Insights on Intuition, Legacy, and Healing" Jul 12, 2024

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Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we dive into the profound and transformative realms of intuition, legacy, and rites of passage with our guest, Dr. Christy Bauman, a therapist, scholar, and author of the newly released "Her Rites: A Sacred Journey for the Mind, Body, and Soul."

Join us as Christy emphasizes the importance of women trusting their intuition in a culture that often encourages them to second-guess themselves and how trauma can influence this inner knowing. Michael shares his personal experiences, highlighting the intersection of neuroscience and intuition. Together, they explore the concept of legacy and its impact on future generations, drawing from Christy's poignant personal stories.

We will also venture into the fascinating rites of initiation and exile, uncovering how facing one's deepest fears and engaging with God’s voice can lead to profound self-discovery and growth. Christy touches upon her empowering program, Womaneering, and the significance of using the body for sustenance and blessing.

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Episode 315 - Sean Seay, "Wholehearted Leadership" Jul 05, 2024

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Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, we welcome back our good friend Sean Seay. Together, he and Michael explore the profound impact of investing in the well-being of church leaders and staff, highlighting innovative practices such as sabbaticals for personal and professional growth.

We'll hear about Sean's transformative experience with a two-week intensive program at Restoring the Soul, which deepened his understanding of his own story and influenced his compassionate leadership approach at Athens Church. Sean and Michael also discuss the importance of long-term relationships with churches, the role of spiritual formation in the digital age, and the significance of intentional rest periods away from devices for spiritual growth.

Join us as we uncover practical strategies for nurturing leaders, fostering spiritual maturity, and integrating ancient practices into modern ministry.

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Episode 314 - Sacred Attachment: Escaping Spiritual Exhaustion and Trusting in Divine Love Jun 29, 2024

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Welcome to another inspiring episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's conversation, Michael is joined by Brian Boecker, as they delve deep into the themes of love, faith, and spirituality. Together, they explore the idea of embracing playfulness and love over living in fear and the role of mysticism in experiencing divine love.

Brian and Michael discuss how attachment and love connect to the gospel and faith and the importance of embodying spirituality through our senses and recognizing our physical experiences. They reflect on personal stories and the profound lessons from childhood experiences, such as moments of tenderness from nuns and the beauty of a sunset on Lake Michigan.

As they journey through these reflections, Michael highlights the launch of his new book, "Sacred Attachment: Escaping Spiritual Exhaustion and Trusting in Divine Love." This book promises to guide readers through spiritual struggles and help them find joyful divine attachment. Pre-order your copy today.

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Episode 313 - Jim Smith, "The Journey of Surrender and Transformation, Part 2" Jun 21, 2024

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Welcome to "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In this episode, we continue our inspiring conversation with Jim Smith, diving into the transformative power of faith. Jim expresses his deep gratitude for the journey he's shared with his Christ-like collaborator, Matt, and extends heartfelt thanks to our listeners.

Together, Michael and Jim explore profound concepts from Jim's book "The Good and Beautiful You," discussing how re-narrating personal stories within a Christ-centered framework can lead to significant faith growth. They emphasize the importance of integrating spiritual disciplines, the role of relationships and mentors like Dallas Willard and John Wesley, and the impact of resources such as books and podcasts on spiritual development.

This episode also delves into the power of solitude as an antidote to busyness, the freedom found in truly understanding spiritual practices and the transformative hope borne out of suffering. Through personal anecdotes and shared experiences, Jim and Michael highlight how integrating faith into everyday life can lead to authentic and lasting transformation.

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Episode 312 - Jim Smith, "The Journey of Surrender and Transformation, Part 1" Jun 14, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's conversation, Michael and Jim Smith dive deep into the complex and ongoing journey of surrender and spiritual growth. Michael opens up about his own experience with the painful yet rewarding process of counseling, emphasizing that surrender is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. Jim shares his profound moments of surrender and discusses the concept as a transfer of power that can lead to a new way of being.

Drawing from the insights of William James, they highlight that life's most significant changes often come through slow and subtle conversions rather than dramatic emotional experiences. As they explore the intersection of religion, God's unconditional love, and our personal narratives, they underscore the importance of experiencing and internalizing divine love to truly transform our lives.

This episode also delves into groundbreaking research conducted by Jim Smith and his colleague, Matt Johnson, uncovering nine "leaps" crucial for deep spiritual growth and Christlikeness. Join us as we explore these pivotal moments, the process of restoring one's soul, and the journey toward becoming secure in God's love.

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Episode 311 - Sam Jolman, "The Sex Talk You Never Got, Part 2" Jun 07, 2024

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Welcome back to "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, Michael dives deep into a conversation with Sam Jolman, author of "The Sex Talk You Never Got: Reclaiming the Heart of Masculine Sexuality." Sam’s groundbreaking book, set to release on June 11, explores the often misunderstood landscape of male sexuality, emphasizing that true sexual healing involves far more than just avoiding lust or overcoming shame. Instead, Sam introduces the concept of reclaiming innocence through awe and kindness, leading to an integrated, holistic experience of our sexuality.
Michael and Sam challenge traditional perspectives, shifting the focus from purity as an end goal to embracing our sexuality as a means of drawing closer to God and experiencing life’s profound beauty. They also address the pivotal question: what is the true goal of male sexuality? Join us for this enlightening discussion that promises to reshape how we understand and experience our deepest desires and connections.

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Episode 310 - Sam Jolman, "The Sex Talk You Never Got, Part 1" May 31, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, our special guest is Sam Jolman, author of the forthcoming 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 distinctive approach Jolman takes in his writing, offering prescriptive advice and a descriptive, story-rich exploration of masculinity and sexuality. Discover why Jolman believes that understanding male sexuality is crucial, especially in the wake of the Me Too movement, which has left many questioning the inherent goodness of male desire.

Tune in as we discuss the necessity for open, ongoing conversations about sexuality, the concept of men as lovers, and the true needs behind sexual desires. We'll also touch on the impact of shame and the need for a more nurturing, informed approach to sexual education. Whether you're a man seeking a deeper understanding of your own sexuality or someone wanting to support the men in your life, this episode is packed with insights and compassion.
Click here for details on Sam's book and to pre-order a copy.

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Episode 309 - Dr. Alison Cook, "Navigating Emotions and Faith" May 17, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, Michael is joined by Dr. Alison Cook, author of the newly released book, "I Shouldn't Feel This Way." Together, they delve into the complexities of emotions and how we can navigate challenging situations through daily practices. Dr. Cook's book is part of a trilogy that includes "Boundaries for the Soul" and "The Best of You."
Throughout the episode, you'll hear Dr. Cook explain her practical teaching method of naming, framing, and taking action—essential steps for emotional and spiritual growth. She emphasizes the importance of honesty about our feelings, especially our faith, and tackles the pitfalls of spiritual bypassing. Through personal anecdotes and profound insights, Dr. Cook and Michael explore how small acts of hope and bravery can lead to profound inner transformation.
Whether you're struggling with feeling conflicted about God, dealing with inner criticism, or seeking to understand the societal implications of emotional reframing, this conversation is full of wisdom and actionable advice. We hope you will discover how you can cultivate clarity, set boundaries, and bravely confront your true emotions on your journey to inner healing.

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Episode 308 - "Barriers to Overcoming Betrayal Trauma" May 15, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another edition of Restoring the Soul. On today's podcast, we tackled the critical topic of betrayal trauma with my bride Julianne. We explored why many women feel stuck in their healing process, diving into relational barriers like ongoing betrayal, gaslighting, and the impact of unresolved past trauma. We discussed the importance of emotional safety and open communication in the journey to recovery. If you or someone you know is experiencing betrayal trauma, this episode is a must-listen for understanding those barriers and finding a path to healing.

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