Created for Connection

Intro to the Podcast

This episode introduces the purpose of the podcast- answering the question, "What do church leaders do when they find themselves struggling with a variety of issues and feel they have nowhere to turn?" 

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

Mentions & Resources:

- WellSpring Process Groups: WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

- Dr. Shelby's counseling: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Harding University Professional Counseling Program: https://www.harding.edu/academics/colleges-departments/education/graduate-programs/mental-health-wellness-programs/clinical-mental-health-counseling#

Failing at Church Planting

In this episode we interview Aaron Etheridge, campus pastor at Ethos Church in Nashville, and director of training with Onward Church Planting. We hear the story of Aaron and Paul’s church planting experience in Vancouver, Canada & the aftereffects of closing this church. Aaron shares about his struggle with the stigma of “failed church planter” and how God has brought him into a place of truth and healing. Aaron’s story can help leaders mourn the losses they’ve experienced while rooting their identity in God’s truth instead of expectations around ministry success.

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

Mentions & Resources:

- Weezer, Numbers: Numbers - YouTube  (sorry Aaron)

- Freedom Prayer: Home - Freedom Prayer

- Ethos Church (Nashville): Home | Ethos Church

- Onward Church Planting: Onward Church Planting – A Global Family of Church Planters

- WellSpring Process Groups: WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

(Online groups for leaders to process their experiences in a safe and healing environment).

- Dr. Shelby's counseling: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Harding University Professional Counseling Program: https://www.harding.edu/academics/colleges-departments/education/graduate-programs/mental-health-wellness-programs/clinical-mental-health-counseling#

The Dark Side of Anxiety

Anxiety is a common experience to all of us and has been elevated in the lives of so many due to the pandemic. In this podcast Paul interviews Kevin about his journey with anxiety and how it has impacted him throughout his life. Kevin shares personal stories while integrating his professional experience that has come through study and wrestling with the darker places anxiety has taken him. Kevin's story is intended to shed light on the suffering anxiety can cause and how the road to managing it is paved through connection and vulnerability. Leaders who find themselves struggling with anxiety will be able to identify with Kevin's story and will find some practical help in finding healthy ways of coping and healing. 

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

Mentions & Resources:

- WellSpring Process Groups: WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

(Online groups for leaders to process their experiences in a safe and healing environment).

- Dr. Shelby's counseling: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Harding University Professional Counseling Program: https://www.harding.edu/academics/colleges-departments/education/graduate-programs/mental-health-wellness-programs/clinical-mental-health-counseling#

- Freedom Prayer: Home - Freedom Prayer

How He Loves Us- Kim Walker- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JoC1ec-lYps

 

 

Lost in Distraction

In this episode Kevin and Paul discuss the importance of remaining present in relationships, the role distractions play in replacing connection with disconnection, and why we are so susceptible to living distracted lives. 

 

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

Mentions & Resources:

- Ephesians 4 Study Guide

1. First read Ephesians 3:16-21 - note that the basis for chapter 4 is a deep knowledge of the love of Christ.
2. As you read through Ephesians 4:1-24, consider this: We are hurt because of people, but God uses people to heal us. How have you found this to be true?
3. Notice in 4:7, 4:11-12, and 4:16, how the unity of the Body is found in a diversity of gifts. Consider how each person has need of other people who use their gifts to build up the Body. Ask yourself, "how has God limited me so that I have need of Himself and others?"
4. The goal of the gifts in chapter 4 is maturity and fullness in Christ. As you read through the chapter, what does maturity look like to you?

- WellSpring Process Groups: WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

(Online groups for participants to process their experiences in a safe and healing environment).

- Dr. Shelby's counseling: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Harding University Professional Counseling Program: https://www.harding.edu/academics/colleges-departments/education/graduate-programs/mental-health-wellness-programs/clinical-mental-health-counseling#

- Celebrate Recovery (find a group): Celebrate Recovery Locator Map (crgroups.info)

- Contemplative Prayer Initiative through the Siburt Institute: Contemplative Ministers' Initiative | Siburt Institute for Church Ministry

The Burden of Doubt

In the context of faith and church, especially for those who teach and preach about faith, it can be isolating when we doubt. In this episode, Paul shares his story of doubt, both in coming to faith and then as a leader in the church. In the times of change we're living in, many of us are experiencing varying degrees of doubt. Kevin and Paul offer encouragement that there can be hope and peace in the midst of doubt - through connection.

*In our suggested resources at the end of the podcast we failed to discuss how various forms of prayer can be helpful ways to process doubt. Kevin and Paul have both found that approaching the Lord and asking for help has actually led to breakthrough in their areas of struggle, including doubt.  We encourage those who doubt to seek out experiential forms of prayer. Spiritual directors can be helpful guides, particularly for contemplative prayer. 

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

Mentions & Resources:

- Jill Dasher's website & book Shallow: Jill-Dasher (jilldasher.com)

- John Mark Comer's website & book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: John Mark Comer

- Spiritual direction: www.roadsteadproject.com, eleven:28 Ministries | Restoring Church Leaders (eleven28.org)

(Eleven28 is particularly geared toward Christian leaders).

- WellSpring Process Groups: WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

(Online groups that help participants process their experiences in a safe and healing environment).

- Dr. Shelby's counseling & resource page: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Celebrate Recovery (find a group): Celebrate Recovery Locator Map (crgroups.info)

Out of the Shadows

Sexual addiction is an uncomfortable topic for most people. But in the church it is especially tempting to hide sexual struggles - particularly for those in leadership. There's been plenty in the news of the failings of Christian leaders around sex. Why is this such a problem and what can we do to become healthier people and leaders?

 

In this episode, Kevin and Paul interview Scott Spicer, a leader who's been on a long journey from hiding to connection & redemptive work around sexual addiction. Scott's story can inspire hope for those who feel trapped in the shadows of whatever they are struggling with. 

 

*For those struggling with sexual addiction, or if you're looking for help for someone who is, we recommend contacting Pure Desire Ministries (www.puredesire.org). Pure Desire is an organization with resources for individuals and families impacted by sexual addiction, including professional counseling, groups, books, and a podcast. If you're looking for a group experience to begin the recovery journey, see: Groups – Pure Desire Ministries. 

 

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

Mentions & Resources:

- WellSpring Process Groups: WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

(Online groups that help participants process their experiences in a safe and healing environment).

- Dr. Shelby's counseling & resource page: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Celebrate Recovery (find a group): Celebrate Recovery Locator Map (crgroups.info)

What if You Knew the Real Me?

"If people knew the real me, would they still accept me?" In this episode, Kevin and Paul interview writerJill Dasher and get the inside scoop on her new book Shallow. For anyone who's ever struggled with keeping up images, pleasing people, or perfectionism - Jill's story is one you'll relate to. We delve into why this tends to happen if you grew up in church, and the challenges with breaking through the walls we build up to being truly known. We think you'll be encouraged and inspired by Jill's story!

 

Jill's book is available at her website: Jill-Dasher (jilldasher.com)

as well as at https://www.amazon.com/Shallow/dp/1737421909/

 

Also find her at www.instagram.com/jilldasher, and Facebook: Jill Dasher | Facebook

 

Contact Kevin and Paul with questions, comments or requests for the podcast: cforconnection@gmail.com.

 

 

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

Mentions & Resources:

- WellSpring Process Groups: WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

(Online groups that help participants process their experiences in a safe and healing environment).

- Dr. Shelby's counseling & resource page: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Celebrate Recovery (find a group): Celebrate Recovery Locator Map (crgroups.info)

 

Searching for Community

In this episode we get a different perspective on the church planting story from episode 2. Jessica Thompson, now a ministry leader at Duncan Pentecostal Church, shares her story of connecting with this unique form of Christian community at an important point in her life. She shares about her struggle to find church, and how God birthed in her a passion to find and build meaningful community. 

For anyone who's felt disconnected from church, particularly during Covid, this one is for you!

Contact Kevin and Paul with questions, comments or topic requests for the podcast: cforconnection@gmail.com. If you have a story of isolation and connection with God or church, we'd love to hear it.

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

Mentions & Resources:

If you need a safe place for healing and connection, check out:

- WellSpring Process Groups: WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

For counseling needs & training:

- Dr. Shelby's counseling: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Harding University Professional Counseling Program: https://www.harding.edu/academics/colleges-departments/education/graduate-programs/mental-health-wellness-programs/clinical-mental-health-counseling#

- Celebrate Recovery (find a group): Celebrate Recovery Locator Map (crgroups.info)

To explore Christian faith or to learn how you or your church can better share faith:

- Alpha Course

The Depressed Leader

In this episode we interview Kevin Vance, a church planter in Regina, SK, Canada. During a tumultuous time in a former job as college president, Kevin fell into a season of depression. Kevin shares here about the internal struggles he wrestled with and the relationships that put him on the road to healing. We also discuss the conflict that sometimes occurs in the church around seeking help for mental health issues. 

If you're struggling with depression, know that you are not alone. See the suggested reading below. We encourage you to reach out to trusted friends and family, to seek counseling, and other forms of connection.

Contact Kevin and Paul with questions, comments or topic requests for the podcast: cforconnection@gmail.com. If you have a story of isolation and connection with God or church, we'd love to hear it.

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

To find out more about Kevin Vance's church in Regina: Gentle Road Church of Christ | Facebook

Mentions & Resources:

Book Recommendation for depression:

- Unmasking Male Depression by Archibald Hart

- Adrenaline and Stress by Archibald Hart

- Lost Connections by Johann Hari 

- The Mindful Way Through Depression by Williams, Teasdale, Segal, and Kabat-Zinn

If you need a safe place for healing and connection, check out:

- WellSpring Process Groups: WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

For counseling needs & training:

- Dr. Shelby's counseling: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Harding University Professional Counseling Program: https://www.harding.edu/academics/colleges-departments/education/graduate-programs/mental-health-wellness-programs/clinical-mental-health-counseling#

To find community in whatever you're struggling with:

- Celebrate Recovery (find a group): Celebrate Recovery Locator Map (crgroups.info)

To explore Christian faith or to learn how you or your church can better share faith:

- Alpha Course

Good Grief

In this first episode of Season 2, Kevin and Paul introduce the expanded focus of the podcast. They then interview Josh Ross, minister at Sycamore View Church of Christ in Memphis, TN. Josh shares his story of grieving his sister's death, and what he's learned about living with grief over the past decade. We discuss the importance of letting ourselves grieve, as well as how to walk with others in their grief. To delve further into this topic, see Josh's book list below.

This episode is sponsored by WellSpring Process Groups. If you'd like space to journey with a supportive group who will help you process whatever you're facing in life, sign up today for a process group with WellSpring. Paul and his associates facilitate these 12-week, online support groups that are based on biblical principles & the research of Christian psychologist, John Townsend. Use the link below to contact WellSpring today.

WellSpring Interest Form

WellSpring: Process Groups | Facebook

 

Contact Kevin and Paul with questions, comments or topic requests for the podcast: cforconnection@gmail.com. If you have a story of isolation and connection with God or church, we'd love to hear it.

Podcast Music written and produced by Cheyenne Medders: Cheyenne Medders Official

 

Mentions & Resources

- Josh Ross has several books associated with grief available at Amazon.com

Amazon.com: Josh Ross: Books, Biography, Blog, Audiobooks, Kindle

- Josh's book co-written with his mom: Scarred Hope: A Mother and Son Learn to Carry Grief and Live with Joy - Kindle edition by Ross, Beverly, Ross, Josh. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

- Ear Crystals that cause Vertigo: Mayo Clinic Q and A: Dizziness Caused by Inner Ear Crystals – Mayo Clinic News Network

- Cat Milk: Amazon.com : Whiskas Catmilk for Cats and Kittens - 6.75 fl oz. - 3ct : Pet Supplies

- Keeping a Squirrel as a Pet: Can You Keep A Squirrel As A Pet What You Need to Consider (squirrelenthusiast.com)

For counseling needs & training:

- Dr. Shelby's counseling: Renew Christian Counseling (renewmystory.com)

- Harding University Professional Counseling Program: https://www.harding.edu/academics/colleges-departments/education/graduate-programs/mental-health-wellness-programs/clinical-mental-health-counseling#

To find community in whatever you're struggling with:

- Celebrate Recovery (find a group): Celebrate Recovery Locator Map (crgroups.info)

To explore Christian faith or to learn how you or your church can better share faith:

- Alpha Course