In this thought-provoking episode with Curtis Chang, we explore a radical shift in how we view anxiety—not as a problem to be solved or eliminated, but as an opportunity to draw nearer to Jesus. Curtis delves into how anxiety often marks the people who approach Jesus, and how it can serve as the catalyst for spiritual growth. We discuss the contrasting approaches of the church and the world to anxiety, with prayer as the church's method of elimination and prescription as the world's solution. Curtis offers a mindset switch that invites us to see anxiety not as a sign of distance from Christ, but as an invitation to step closer to Him. Tune in for a transformative perspective on anxiety that could change the way you experience your faith.

Curtis Chang is a consulting professor in innovation and organization at Duke Divinity School and a senior fellow at Fuller Theological Seminary. He is also a faculty member at American University. Curtis has a distinguished background in social innovation, having won an Obama White House award as the founder and head of Consulting Within Reach, a firm dedicated to serving nonprofits and government. His work bridges the worlds of faith, leadership, and mental health, focusing on how spiritual growth can be integrated with personal transformation. Curtis is the author of Engaging Unbelief: A Captivating Strategy from Augustine and Aquinas (IVP) and is a former Rockefeller Fellow. Known for his thoughtful and transformative approach to anxiety, he encourages individuals to view their struggles not as barriers, but as opportunities to grow closer to Jesus.

Check out Dr. Chang's book below:

Anxiety Opportunity

Also listen to his podcast here:

The good faith podcast

Find out more about Dr. Chang’s work on his website:

Redeeming Babble

In this powerful re-release of one of our most impactful episodes, Steve and Wyatt sit down with Dr. Dan Allender, renowned psychologist and author, to unpack the complex role of shame in marriage and deep relationships. Dr. Allender brings his expertise to the table, shedding light on how shame silently shapes the dynamics of intimate partnerships, often leading to disconnection, resentment, and emotional isolation. Through this conversation, we explore how shame takes root, how it impacts communication and trust, and most importantly, how couples can navigate its grip to heal and grow together.

Whether you're in a committed relationship or working through personal struggles with shame, Dr. Allender’s insights offer a roadmap to understanding and transforming the ways shame shows up in our deepest connections.

Join us for a rich discussion on healing, vulnerability, and the journey toward more authentic and resilient relationships.

Read his books!

The Intimate Mystery

The Cry of the Soul

Learn more about Dr. Dan Allender here: https://theallendercenter.org/about/team/dan-allender/

Native Exiles, a podcast from Alderwood Community Church, where we talk about following Jesus in the tension of being in the world but not of it. We want to help you think through how to walk with Jesus in a world that is seemingly walking the opposite direction. We want to equip you to engage the world without disengaging from Jesus.

For more questions and inquiries, reach us at reachus@amcc.org or visit us on our website at nativeexiles.com.

In this insightful episode, we sit down with renowned psychologist and author Dr. Dan Allender to explore the complexities of anxiety—its roots, its impact, and the path to healing. Drawing on his vast experience and wisdom, Dr. Allender shares transformative insights on understanding anxiety, confronting its emotional and spiritual dimensions, and discovering ways to break free from its grip. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety or simply seeking a deeper understanding, this conversation offers valuable tools for navigating life's challenges with courage and hope.

Dr. Dan Allender is a renowned author, speaker, and therapist known for his work in the field of trauma, emotional healing, and Christian counseling. As a pioneering figure in the integration of psychology and theology, Dr. Allender has focused much of his research and writing on how individuals can heal from deep emotional wounds and trauma through understanding their story and the redemptive power of God.

Dr. Allender founded The Allender Center at The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology, where he trains professionals and offers workshops aimed at helping people understand the impact of their past experiences on their present lives. His work emphasizes the importance of telling one’s story, recognizing the ways in which shame, brokenness, and sin affect mental health, and finding freedom and healing through Christ.

For more questions and inquiries, reach us at reachus@amcc.org or visit us on our website at nativeexiles.com.

Doctor Gregory Jantz joins Wyatt to discuss a holistic approach to mental health that considers our spiritual, physical, and mental design as created beings. Additionally, Dr. Jantz share practical resources to quantify anxiety and begin the journey towards healing. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety or looking to help others who may be, Dr. Jantz has something to say for everyone involved in this conversation.

Doctor Gregory Jantz is an acclaimed author, speaker, and researcher in the field of mental health. From eating disorders to depression, Dr. Jantz has written and conducted research on a wide range of mental health topic. Out of his work, Dr. Jantz started A Place of Hope, to put into practice a holistic approach to addressing mental health concerns. As a follower of Jesus, Dr. Jantz continue to model a balanced view on mental health that finds its basis in scripture.

Check out Dr. Jantz’s Anxiety test here or find additional resources from Dr. Jantz on his website.

For more questions and inquiries, reach us at reachus@amcc.org or visit us on our website at nativeexiles.com.

Join us as we continue our conversation about mental health. In today’s episode, Pastor Wyatt welcomes Tristan Collins, author of "Why Emotions Matter" to the studio.

Native Exiles is a podcast from Alderwood Community Church. In it, we discuss following Jesus in the tension of being in the world but not of it. We want to help you think through how to walk with Jesus in a world that seems to be moving in the opposite direction. We want to equip you to engage the world without disengaging from Jesus.

For more questions and inquiries, reach us at reachus@amcc.org or visit us on our website at nativeexiles.com.

Mental health conversations and challenges permeate our society. In today’s episode, Pastors Wyatt and Steve explore how faith and psychology intersect against common misconceptions in our culture and churches. We are excited for the next few months as we take a deep dive into the topic of mental health.

Native Exiles is a podcast from Alderwood Community Church. In it, we discuss following Jesus in the tension of being in the world but not of it. We want to help you think through how to walk with Jesus in a world that seems to be moving in the opposite direction. We want to equip you to engage the world without disengaging from Jesus.

For more questions and inquiries, reach us at reachus@amcc.org or visit us on our website at nativeexiles.com.

In the wake of a historical election, Pastors Wyatt and Steve share some practical steps followers of Jesus can take to engage in political even after we’ve cast our votes.

Native Exiles, a podcast from Alderwood Community Church, where we talk about following Jesus in the tension of being in the world but not of it. We want to help you think through how to walk with Jesus in a world that is seemingly walking the opposite direction. We want to equip you to engage the world without disengaging from Jesus.

Are you interested in viewing the ladder of influence? Check it out here. https://alderwood.cc/wp-content/uploads/Ladder-of-influence.pdf

For more questions and inquiries, reach us at reachus@amcc.org or visit us on our website at nativeexiles.com.

Keith and Patrick from the podcast Truth Over Tribe join Wyatt on a Sunday Morning to share a framework that explains how we can respond to our changing society's sense of morality and political climate.

Keith and Simon are pastors and authors helping follower of Jesus think through living out the Kingdom of God in our modern world. Their first book, Truth Over Tribe, focuses on our political moment and how Jesus challenges our sense of tribalism. They also just release a new announcement for their book, Joyful Outsiders. Check out both books and their podcast below.

Read their books!

Truth Over Tribe

https://choosetruthovertribe.com/book

Preorder Joyful Outsiders here

https://www.amazon.com/Joyful-Outsiders-Jesus-Disorienting-Culture/dp/031036874X

Learn more about Truth Over Tribe here: https://choosetruthovertribe.com/

Native Exiles, a podcast from Alderwood Community Church, where we talk about following Jesus in the tension of being in the world but not of it. We want to help you think through how to walk with Jesus in a world that is seemingly walking the opposite direction. We want to equip you to engage the world without disengaging from Jesus.

For more questions and inquiries, reach us at reachus@amcc.org or visit us on our website at nativeexiles.com.