• Episode 331 - Michael John Cusick, "Trauma-Informed Care, Part 2"
    Jan 4 2025

    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 explore the profound significance of experiencing the "Four S's"—seen, soothe, safe, and secure—within a therapy context.

    Join us as we uncover how a trauma-informed approach not only navigates past experiences and trauma but also equips individuals to live flourishing lives beyond therapy. Michael emphasizes the importance of voicing one's needs and ensuring therapy environments feel safe and supportive. He introduces us to powerful techniques for managing emotional dysregulation and discusses therapeutic practices that foster a deep connection with oneself, God, and others.


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    35 mins
  • Episode 330 - Michael John Cusick, "Trauma-Informed Care, Part 1"
    Dec 28 2024

    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 experiences of individuals to improve their engagement and outcomes in care settings.

    Michael shares personal stories that underscore the importance of this approach, illustrating the profound impact it can have on patient experiences and outcomes. We'll delve into practical ways organizations can create sensitive environments for those with neurodiversity and sensory sensitivities, the significance of establishing clear protocols for consent and empowerment, and the necessity of training staff in trauma-informed practices.

    Join us as we discuss how integrating trauma-informed care can lead to better engagement, retention, and overall health outcomes, transforming the way we approach care in both medical and therapeutic environments.


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    30 mins
  • Episode 329 - Meredith Phipps, "Yoga Therapy and Trauma Recovery"
    Dec 20 2024

    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 misconceptions about yoga, highlights the scientific and theological underpinnings of the practice, and emphasizes the importance of embodying one's faith.

    Tune in to explore how yoga can be a transformative tool for healing, fostering a deeper connection with oneself and God. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on bridging the gap between spirituality and physical well-being, particularly for those navigating trauma and seeking holistic care.

    ON THE WEB: Essentia Yoga Therapy


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    23 mins
  • Episode 328 - Tony Kriz, "From Trauma to Triumph: Literacy's Role in Healing"
    Dec 14 2024

    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 hear about the startling statistics surrounding childhood literacy, the long-term effects of trauma, and inspiring initiatives like the Children's Literacy Project. This campaign aims to connect volunteers with local schools to help children read at grade level by the fourth grade, significantly influencing their futures. Together, we'll explore how a single caring adult can make a monumental difference and the spiritual and social justice dimensions of ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.

    Prepare to be moved and motivated as we uncover the power of mentorship, the challenges faced by under-resourced schools, and practical ways you can be part of the solution. Whether through volunteering, supporting literacy programs, or committing to the well-being of children in your community, this episode is a call to action.

    ON THE WEB: Children's Literacy Project


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    41 mins
  • Episode 327 - Michael and Peter Zaremba, "Letting Go of Control Through the Serenity Prayer"
    Dec 9 2024

    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 embark on a journey through 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 into the biblical teachings on contentment and the spiritual wisdom of the 12-step program. Peter shares his transformative experiences, discovering strength in acknowledging powerlessness and trusting a greater power. Michael breaks down the "circle of control" and explores the mental and emotional shifts required for true detachment from outcomes.

    Together, we reflect on balancing brain functions to foster greater awareness and approach life with joy rather than stress. We also touch on the transformative impact of the 12-step practices in daily life, from personal prayer routines to handling emotional pain and judgment.


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    34 mins
  • Episode 326 - Michael with Peter Zaremba, "Embracing Freedom: The Journey from Control to Acceptance"
    Dec 2 2024

    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, relationships, and overall sense of well-being.

    Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, Michael and Peter discuss the detrimental impacts of turning desires into demands, leading to transactional relationships and emotional turmoil. The episode highlights the importance of understanding our "circle of control," shedding light on what we can influence directly and what lies beyond our grasp.

    Join us as we navigate the complexities of seeking freedom from compulsive behaviors, thought patterns, and the universal human condition of needing control. This episode promises to offer profound insights and practical wisdom for anyone looking to restore their soul and live a more liberated life.


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    40 mins
  • Episode 325 - Bette Dickinson, "Visio Divina and Encountering God"
    Nov 23 2024

    Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, we delve into a profound conversation with our guest, Bette Dickinson, a prophetic artist, speaker, and author of "Making Room in Advent." Join us as we explore the transformative role of women in the church, drawing insight from biblical figures like Mary and Elizabeth.

    Bette shares how her journey of integrating her artistic and leadership talents has deepened her spiritual connection and illuminated critical perspectives on the kingdom of God. She and Michael discuss the ancient practice of visio divina, allowing listeners to engage spiritually with art, and reveal how Bette’s creative process serves as a metaphor for spiritual formation.

    With candid reflections on the challenges women face in ministry, Bette provides a powerful testament to the importance of marginalized voices within religious spaces. They also touch upon her unique experience in ministry and seminary, the tensions between her Enneagram gifts, and how the rhythms of contemplation and creation shape her calling.

    Discover more about Bette here.


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    42 mins
  • Episode 324 - Michael John Cusick, "Discovering Lectio Divina: Ancient Practices for a Modern Spiritual Journey"
    Nov 16 2024

    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 reading method that focuses on prayerful, contemplative engagement with the scriptures.

    Throughout this episode, Michael shares personal stories and insights on how Lectio Divina can reboot your experience with scripture, foster a deeper connection with God, and create a posture of stillness and receiving. He also highlights the importance of slowing down and integrating both our minds' analytical and imaginative aspects in our spiritual journey.

    Join us as we explore five compelling reasons to incorporate Lectio Divina into your daily life and learn how it can cultivate the deep, experiential relationship with God that your heart longs for. Stay tuned to the end as we recommend some insightful books to guide you in this practice further. Get ready to be inspired to engage with scripture in a more meaningful and personal way.


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    24 mins