Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick

Welcome to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this second part of our exploration into Trauma-Informed Care, we continue to understand how our past experiences inform our present reality and how vital it is to feel safe and secure—not just in our external environment but within the therapeutic space.

Today, we’ll delve deeper into the pillars supporting a trauma-informed approach—one that equips you with the resources to understand, manage, and develop the intrinsic tools necessary for self-care, especially in the face of life’s triggering events. We're looking at how techniques like breathing exercises, somatic awareness, and other strategies can help us navigate the waters of emotional dysregulation, all from the comfort of our homes or even online.

Discover how the barrier built by porn addiction can become a bridge to abundant life.

What if lust for porn is really a search for true passion?

In a world where there are 68 million searches for pornography every day and where over 70 percent of Christian men report viewing porn in the last year, it's no surprise that more and more men struggle with an addiction to this false fantasy. Common wisdom says if they just had more willpower or more faith, their fight would be over.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

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Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, Michael takes you through the deep waters of understanding trauma's impact and how entities like hospitals and clinics are integrating Trauma-Informed Care into their daily routines. With practical insights and real-life scenarios, this episode begins a profound dialogue on creating environments that aid healing rather than hindering it.

Highlights from the episode include:

- The importance of incorporating trauma-informed care into clinical settings—beyond therapeutic modalities and organizational culture and practices.

- Personal anecdotes that underscore the consequences of neglecting a trauma-informed approach, exemplified by a discouraging visit to a dental clinic.

- Why it's vital for organizations to actively engage clients in the planning process and how this empowerment can make all the difference in care situations.

- The episode also delves into the specialized field of clinical trauma care, spotlighting treatment methods like EMDR, brain spotting, and somatic interventions.

Discover how the barrier built by porn addiction can become a bridge to abundant life.

What if lust for porn is really a search for true passion?

In a world where there are 68 million searches for pornography every day and where over 70 percent of Christian men report viewing porn in the last year, it's no surprise that more and more men struggle with an addiction to this false fantasy. Common wisdom says if they just had more willpower or more faith, their fight would be over.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
- Like us on Facebook
- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter
- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. This episode delves into the transformative power of intensive counseling, a unique process honed over nearly two decades. Michael and Julianne Cusick explain how Restoring the Soul provides a safe, sacred space where you get clarity on your struggles and a clear path forward for healing. Tailored to each individual, psychological insight with spiritual practices are combined to ensure you are transformed and truly equipped to live differently. In just 1-2 weeks, we accomplish what might otherwise take months.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, we explore the depths of a non-anxious life with guest Alan Fadling. We discuss the power of embodying peace and the transformative practice of God’s presence in our daily lives. Alan shared insights from his new book and his journey of replacing anxiety with gratitude, patience, and the rhythm of God's grace. We also see that peace is not just the absence of turmoil but the tangible presence of the divine we can experience moment by moment.

Join us in embracing the simple virtues—humility, gentleness, and kindness—that counter anxiety and guide us toward a life marked by serenity and trust in God's perfect pace.

Click here for a link to purchase Alan's book.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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“We need to exchange the currency by which we do life for the currency of heaven.”  - Michael John Cusick

Welcome to the Restoring the Soul podcast. You’re in for a treat as we’re featuring a talk given by our host, Michael John Cusick, to Denver Community Church titled “The Currency of Heaven.” 

From the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3 to the rich tapestry of Isaiah 55, we'll explore the idea that heaven is not just a far-off promise but an earthly reality where "heaven is happening here." And what does it mean to be blessed? To be "poor in spirit"? Today, we're delving into a profound paradox where brokenness is not a sign of spiritual bankruptcy but the very currency of heaven.

Michael will share a bit of his journey, from a young man yearning to touch the kingdom of God through struggle and restlessness to moments of being understood in the most unexpected of sanctuaries—a bedroom closet. A space where a friend's presence reflected Christ's love and attention.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

“Freedom is birthed out of suffering.” - Dr. Barbara Peacock

Welcome to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. On this celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King's birthday, we wanted to highlight our conversation with Dr. Barbara Peacock, an experienced preacher, teacher, and minister of discipleship and prayer. Dr. Peacock trains in spiritual direction and soul care for ministry leaders and has a God-given call and desire to serve as a spiritual coach for individuals and groups.

On this episode, she and Michael discuss her book, Soul Care in African American Practice. It’s a fascinating look at prayer, spiritual direction, and soul care and how the transatlantic journey for the slaves was the entry point or beginning of spiritual direction and soul care from an African American perspective. Dr. Peacock also uses examples of ten significant men and women—like Frederick Douglass, Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Howard Thurman, and others—to give leadership examples of how vital soul care was to their lives. 

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

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Welcome to Restoring the Soul! In this episode, Michael and Peter Zaremba explore the essence of courage, not as an absence of fear, but as the willingness to take intentional action amidst it. Peter brings to light the profound acts of everyday bravery witnessed within his men's group, intertwining their discussions with the biblical narrative that emphasizes the value of such courage.

They also reveal that courage is woven into the small, everyday fabrics of our lives—be it through acts of vulnerability, trust, or the simple yet profound steps toward spiritual growth. Michael likens courage to a muscle that gets stronger with practice, a concept they both relate to the importance of being fully present, accepting the present moment as is, and taking life's meaningful risks.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

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Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, we dive into the depths of emotional and psychological healing with Aundi Kolber as we explore the intricate interplay between somatic experiences, Internal Family Systems, and the transformative power of embracing our emotions with grace and strength.

In this episode, we delve into Aundi's remarkable insights on somatic awareness, the body's intuitive sense of safety, and navigating challenging emotions with curiosity rather than criticism. Aundi shares how her bestselling book, "Try Softer," has influenced the lives of many and how her journey continues in her latest work, "Strong Like Water," an exploration of strength as a dynamic and adaptable force, much like the nature of water itself.

Join us as Aundi takes us through a compelling conversation about validating emotions, employing grounding techniques, and understanding trauma's impact on our perception of safety. Together, Michael and Aundi discuss how podcasts like ours serve as a beacon of connection and healing, how faith intertwines with psychological well-being, and the importance of integrating our whole selves for a compelling journey toward healing.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
- Like us on Facebook
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick, where today we’re diving deep once again with Peter Zaremba into the transformative power of the Welcoming Prayer. This practice is your toolkit to embracing difficult emotions right where you are – focus on the emotion, welcome it with open arms, and surrender it actively to God. Our experiences and insights reveal how welcoming your feelings, not the circumstances, can shift your perspective and connect you deeper to divine peace. It's not about the noise around you but the stillness within you. Transform fear into love, chaos into serenity, and unrest into a profound sense of presence.

Join us as we welcome and surrender to the uncomfortable – turning every moment into an opportunity for growth and connection with the ever-present love of God.

 HELPFUL RESOURCES:
Episode 288 - Michael with Peter Zaremba, "7 Toxic Outcomes of Maintaining Control"
Episode 289 - Michael with Peter Zaremba, "Releasing Control, Embracing Serenity"
Episode 290 - Rob Mathes, "Bridging the Sacred and Secular: A Chat with Rob Mathes" 

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul.

Today, we welcome the extraordinarily gifted Rob Mathes, a true maestro who has woven his life around the threads of music, working with legends across genres from classical to hip-hop and transforming the sacred into song. Rob's annual Christmas concert, celebrating its 30th anniversary this weekend, has been a melting pot of musical styles, capturing the essence of his spiritual journey through soulful melodies and collaborations with icons like Vanessa Williams, Michael McDonald, and David Sanborn.

In Michael's conversation with Rob, you’ll discover the profound personal significance behind his song "Although It Is the Night," inspired by St. John of The Cross’s poem “Dark Night of the Soul”. Rob will also take us behind the scenes of his work with musical giants such as Bruce Springsteen and the incomparable Stevie Wonder. 

This is more than a conversation; it's a journey through the soulful symphony of life and faith with Rob Mathes as our guide. 

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

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Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's conversation, we dive into the practice of releasing our grip on judgment, control, and attachment to outcomes. Peter Zaremba shares an eye-opening personal account of encountering an irritating traveler, prompting a reflection on his quick-to-judge nature. This episode explores the liberating concept of being fully present in the moment and the pitfalls of becoming entangled with future expectations.

Together with Michael, the conversation unfolds to reveal the challenges and benefits of detachment—from mental, emotional, and physical standpoints. We'll hear how expectations can cloud our holiday experiences and the transformative shift when we move from expectation to hopeful possibility. The discussion also delves into the significance of the Serenity Prayer, the wisdom of the Twelve Steps in recovery, and Michael's morning routine of surrender and letting go—all as paths to finding true peace and contentedness.

HELPFUL RESOURCES:
Episode 288 - Michael with Peter Zaremba, "7 Toxic Outcomes of Maintaining Control"

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
- Like us on Facebook
- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter
- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, Peter Zaremba is our guest, and we'll dive into the intricate topic of control and its negative impact. Control has become a paramount issue, particularly during the pandemic and times of global upheaval. It's a universal human condition, a survival mechanism, but often, the desire to control is tethered to our outcomes, and that's where things start getting complicated. 

Join us as we share our journeys with control, our struggles, and the toll it has taken on our well-being. It's not always easy to accept what we can't control, but there's a certain liberation in letting go. We'll explore the concept of the 'circle of control' - envisioning those things squarely under our control and those that aren't. 

As we meditate on our collective challenges with outcomes and control, we'll face the hard truth - that our happiness doesn't stem from our control over outcomes. We'll explore the confusing difference between a healthy desire for change and an unhealthy attachment to results. We'll delve into how our craving for control can lead to emotional turmoil, relationship struggles, and even addictive behaviors. 

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's conversation, we connect with Kevin Triplett, whose powerful transformation journey moves from despair to redemption. Kevin opens up about how he navigated through life marked by racism, struggled with addiction, attempted to find validation in the wrong places, and finally found solace in God's grace.

Kevin's deeply personal journey reminds us that our brokenness is not a barrier but a bridge to an abundance of freedom, joy, and wholeness. He demonstrates his strength in vulnerability by sharing his darkest moments and how they became catalysts for change—a change that has not only touched his life but has nudged him to contribute to men's healing journeys. Join us as we delve into Kevin's self-discovery, faith, and redemption story.

As the holiday season unfolds, consider embracing a new beginning for healing in the upcoming year. We are excited to announce that registration is available for the Restoring the Soul Men's Intensive Weekend from February 22-25, 2024, in Monument, Colorado. As a way of saying "thanks!" to our podcast listeners, we're offering an exclusive $200 discount on the regular price for those who sign up before December 25th. To take full advantage of this special opportunity, visit restoringthesoulweekend.com, navigate to the registration page, and use the code 'weekend24' during checkout.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to another episode on Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's episode, we dive into deep end of church ministry and more specifically, the challenging transition between pastoral roles and secular roles. We explore the complex dynamics of leaving the community you've shepherded - the pain, resentment, and pressure to support still a church you've supposedly been let go from.

Our guest today is Kevin Tracy, a former designer at Hallmark. He then spent his significant years in Peru involved in the church community, half of which was spent pastoring various churches upon his return to the States. He offers coaching programs to help people integrate Scripture into the workplace and navigate the transition process after leaving the ministry.

We discuss the tension between meeting immediate needs and thinking long-term, the value of counseling, and personal experiences of trauma. We also underscore the skills gained through ministry roles that are transferrable and valuable in the marketplace. Kevin talks about his six essential steps for transitioning out of ministry, starting with clarifying the reason for leaving.

We touch on controversial themes, including challenges posed by non-disclosure agreements and bullying tactics used by organizations. We end by sharing the resourceful website noholyhandcuffs.com and discussing the importance of creating a safe space for vulnerability, taking ownership of healing, and envisioning a healthier, more fulfilling future.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
- Like us on Facebook
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's episode, we dive deep into suffering, hope, and the transformative power of relationships. Join us as we explore the intricate connections between our understanding of God's glory, the importance of vulnerability, and the development of character. Curt Thompson shares insights from his book that shed new light on old truths, bringing a fresh perspective on suffering. We'll also discuss the role of community and the presence of the Holy Spirit in the process of healing and transformation.

HELPFUL RESOURCES:
Curt Thompson website
The Deepest Place: Suffering and the Formation of Hope

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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On this edition of Restoring the Soul, Michael has the opportunity to participate in a webinar with Robby Angle and the team from TrueFace titled “Breaking Your Cycle, A Grace-Based Approach To Walking Together Through Unwanted Behaviors.”

All of us have struggled with an addiction or an unwanted behavior that we just can’t seem to stop. Often, in desperation or exhaustion, we tell someone. Unfortunately, many of us aren’t sure what to do next. In this webinar, Michael and Robby discuss a grace-based approach to walking with another person through unwanted behaviors and toward freedom. This approach will teach you to focus on the person instead of the problem.

Click here to view the video of the webinar.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

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We're pleased to welcome our good friend, Alan Fadling, to the podcast. In this thought-provoking conversation, Michael and Alan dive into the current state of the world, particularly in light of recent events in Israel and Gaza. They explore the idea of finding inner peace amidst global turmoil and the teachings of Jesus as a source of guidance and comfort. 

Alan shares insights from his upcoming book and draws parallels between the turbulent times that Jesus lived in and our present reality. Join us as we discuss navigating anxiety, distractions, and the overwhelming influx of information in today's digital age. 

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

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Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today's episode, titled "From Infidelity to Intensives: Ben Wilson's Path to Healing and Helping Others," a special guest is joining us. Ben Wilson, a Restoring the Soul Intensive therapist and a longtime acquaintance of our host, Michael. Ben shares his journey and what led him to join the Restoring the Soul team and participate in their men's intensive programs. He also discusses his experience in working with couples dealing with infidelity and the book he wrote on the subject. 

Throughout the conversation, Ben emphasizes the importance of addressing deep longings and unhealthy strategies in our lives and the role of facing pain and suffering in true transformation. Ben's varied background, from being a golfer to completing the grueling Iron Man race, adds to the richness of his perspective. So, get ready to dive deep into the complexities of the human heart and discover how restoration is possible even in the midst of deep pain. 

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

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"Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but having an accurate self-perception. It's about being grounded in who God made you to be." - Rev. Dr. Dennis Edwards

Welcome back to the Restoring Soul podcast! In this episode, host Michael John Cusick invites Rev. Dr. Dennis Edwards to dive deep into the topic of humility. They discuss the misunderstandings surrounding humility and how it is often misapplied in the lives of followers of Jesus. 

Dr. Edwards shares his insights as a theologian and pastor, shedding light on the true essence of humility. They explore biblical examples, such as Moses and Jesus, and examine the importance of recognizing and submitting to God's perspective of ourselves. Join us as we uncover the truths about humility and its transforming power.

HELPFUL RESOURCES:
Humility Illuminated: The Biblical Path Back to Christian Character

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
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"Many of us feel aimless and unable to direct our lives effectively. But fear not, iCARE will guide you to a calm and grounded state of being." - Michael John Cusick

In today's episode, we delve into the concept of "iCARE," focusing on what lies within us, including our body, mind, and emotions. Michael John Cusick explores the practice of becoming aware of our inner experiences and sensations through a body scan, allowing us to observe and notice without judgment. 

Drawing on scripture passages, he highlights the importance of self-compassion, kindness, humility, and gentleness as the foundation for loving others. He also challenges the misconception that we are fundamentally flawed or unlovable, rooted in a deeper understanding of sin and our relationship with God. We also delve into practical exercises such as figure eights, tapping, and breathing techniques to regulate emotions and cultivate a deeper connection with God. 

So, join us as we journey inward, exploring the treasures within our souls and learning to live in alignment with God's love.

CONTACT RESTORING THE SOUL:
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
- Like us on Facebook
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- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!