In this heartfelt conversation, Cherise and Briana sit down with Michelle McMahon—follower of Jesus, wife, girl mom, former pastor, and trauma-trained therapist—to unpack how curiosity (not control) opens the door to connection, clarity, and healing. Michelle shares how God restored what was lost in her childhood story and how that redemption now shapes her calling as a counselor for couples and individuals walking through betrayal trauma and restoration.

What We Cover

• Purpose & Identity: Why living your purpose starts with knowing who and whose you are.

• Curiosity vs. Control: How curiosity draws people closer—in marriage, parenting, church, and community.

• "Slower is faster": Practical ways to slow down so you can truly listen, regulate emotions, and heal.

• Marriage Tools: The Pain & Peace Cycle (Restoration Therapy) and how to move from reaction to repair.

• Faith & Questions: Why it's safe—and Christ-like—to bring your questions to Jesus.

Key Quotes

• "Control disconnects you from others. Curiosity draws them closer."

• "Slower is faster—when we slow down, we move toward deeper healing."

• "Jesus was asked 183 questions and only answered 4 directly. If that's how He lived, that's how I want to live."

Connect with Michelle

• Counseling (In-Person or Telehealth): Michelle McMahon, PLPC — [email protected] | kcrecoverypartners.com | Work: 816-945-4208

• Practice: BrianJames Therapy (Christian practice with multiple cost points)

• Pastoral Care Groups: ChurchWellCo

• Speaker One-Sheet / Bio: Google Drive

Resources & Books Mentioned

• Curious: The Unexpected Power of a Question-Led Life by Tom Hughes — Amazon

• The Cost of Control: Why We Crave It, the Anxiety It Gives Us, and the Real Power God Promises by Sharon Hodde Miller — Amazon

Join the Conversation

How is God inviting you to slow down and stay curious this week? Share with us on Instagram or in our Facebook group!

• Podcast Instagram: Echos of Impact

• Life Coaching Instagram: The Woman's Success Code

• Facebook: Echos of Impact Community

Take the Next Step

• Interested in joining The Woman's Success Code? Learn more here

• Ready for a fresh start? Schedule your complimentary Life Audit with Briana

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow and leave a review. Your support helps us continue sharing inspiring stories like Michelle's.

Until next week, friends! 💛