In this episode of Faith and Feels, Rika Lopez sits down with Cindy Lee, a high school English teacher, former missionary, and current M.Div. student, to talk about the transformative power of education and faith.

Cindy shares how her experience as a missionary shapes the way she teaches, emphasizing authentic relationships, supportive classroom culture, and engaging students in critical thinking through literature. She introduces the Harkness table method, which fosters respect, listening, and honoring of differing views and opinions—skills that shape students far beyond the classroom.

With humility and deep care, Cindy even wrote a personal letter to each of her students before graduation, a gesture that reflected her heart as a servant-leader and her desire for each student to know they are seen and valued. From addressing mental health struggles to being an advisor for a school club called "Gentlemen’s of Tomorrow," Cindy demonstrates in tangible ways the love of Jesus as a teacher, mentor, and guide.

She also encourages parents to connect with their teens through open communication and reminds us that being authentic and vulnerable, rooted in Christ’s love, is at the core of reaching the next generation.

For more of Cindy's writings and reflections, you can visit her blog at https://thewildernesstable.com

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Faith in Fields Podcast

01:48 Cindy Lee: A Journey from Missionary to Teacher

08:00 Understanding the Challenges of Today's Students

12:33 Creating a Supportive Classroom Environment

18:15 Building Authentic Relationships with Students

24:45 The Harkness Table: Fostering Critical Thinking

32:21 Leaving a Legacy Through Literature and Respect

34:13 The Impact of Teaching Methods

38:01 Mental Health Challenges in the Classroom

42:21 Navigating Modern Relationships and Ethics

49:35 Understanding Gen Z: Technology and Social Dynamics

55:22 Teaching Values Through Literature

01:00:14 Gentlemen of Tomorrow: A New Initiative

01:04:06 Advice for Parents of Teens

In this episode, I’m taking a step away from structured topics and sharing one of My Random Rambling Reflections. These are moments where I let my heart speak a little more freely— sometimes simply about life, faith, or what God has been showing me in unexpected ways.

This reflection is less about polished answers and more about honest processing, vulnerability, and connection. My hope is that as you listen, you’ll find encouragement for your own journey and be reminded that healing doesn’t happen in a straight line—it happens in the everyday reflections, wrestlings, and glimpses of grace.

*Make sure to listen to the last poem called "Safe" by Paul David Tripp! You'll be blessed by it~

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Faith in Fields

01:38 Personal Reflections on Trauma and Healing

02:08 The Car Accident Experience

10:06 Understanding Trauma Responses

12:11 Processing Guilt and Shame

14:34 The Role of Supportive Relationships

18:09 Lessons on Control and Vulnerability

24:00 Finding Comfort in Vulnerability

29:27 Self-Compassion and Healing Practices

32:01 Trusting God in Uncertainty

34:23 Closing Thoughts and a Poem

Book Recommendation:

"My Heart Cries Out" by Paul David Tripp

"Polyvagal Flip Chart" by Deb Dana, Author of "The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy"

Dr.Peter Levine's Trauma Healing Resources:

www.traumahealing.org

Pixabay Music : "Exciting Day" "Christian Instrumental Piano"

In this episode of Faith and Feels, I sit down with psychotherapist Aly Dearborn to explore the fascinating world of Polyvagal Theory and how it can guide us in healing from trauma. We talk about how understanding our nervous system can transform the way we experience safety, stress, and connection. Aly unpacks practical ways to navigate the different states of our nervous system, and why self-regulation, co-regulation, and befriending our bodies and emotions are so essential in the healing process. My hope is that this conversation leaves you feeling both informed and encouraged on your own journey.

Recommended Resources:

www.alydmft.com

"Polyvagal Flip Chart" by Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology

Books by Dr.Stephen Porges:

"Safe and Sound"

"Polyvagal Perspectives"

"Polyvagal Theory"

Takeaways:

Polyvagal Theory offers a framework for understanding trauma responses.

The nervous system's state influences our feelings and behaviors.

Self-regulation and co-regulation are crucial for healing.

Understanding bodily sensations can help depathologize mental health issues.

Curiosity about our nervous system states can enhance self-awareness.

Healing requires patience and kindness towards oneself.

Environmental cues can impact our sense of safety.

Befriending our bodies can lead to greater emotional regulation.

Practical exercises can help integrate Polyvagal Theory into daily life.

Healing is a journey that involves both body and mind.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Polyvagal Theory and Trauma Healing

04:08 Understanding Polyvagal Theory

12:08 The Connection Between Body and Mind

21:58 Practical Applications of Polyvagal Theory

29:52 Navigating Nervous System States

40:01 Befriending Your Body and Emotions

*Music by Pixabay: "Mixaund Happy" "Exciting Day" and "Waterfall"

In this episode, I sit down with my dear friend and fellow LMFT(Licensed Marriage Family Therapist) Susette Magana to explore the intersection of mental health and faith—specifically through the lens of peacemaking in relationships. We dive into how family systems, differentiation, and attachment theory all play a role in how we relate to others, and how God’s peace can be a grounding force in both our personal and relational healing.

Susette shares from her own journey and offers practical tools like listening prayer and biblical reflection from Ephesians 4 that help foster genuine connection and transformation. We also talk about the power of boundaries, the grace we need in relationships, and why it’s so important for faith communities to engage in these mental health conversations.

If you’ve ever struggled with people-pleasing, conflict in your family, or feeling overwhelmed in relationships, this episode is for you.

Recommended Sites:

www.susettemagana.com

instagram.com/susette.magana.therapy/#

podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-desire-line/id1296321072

Takeaways:

-Peacemaking involves moving towards wholeness with wisdom, grace, and truth.

-Understanding family systems is crucial for effective peacemaking.

-Ephesians 4 provides a biblical framework for living well together.

-Practical exercises like listening prayer can help cultivate peace.

-The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in regulating our emotions during conflicts.

-Boundaries are essential for maintaining peace in relationships.

-Trusting God can guide us in our next steps towards reconciliation.

-Attachment theory emphasizes the importance of secure relationships.

-Peacemaking is a messy process that requires patience and grace.

-It's important to seek support from therapists who understand the complexities of relationships.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Peacemaking in Relationships

08:00 Understanding Family Systems and Peacemaking

20:38 Ephesians 4: The Foundation of Peacemaking

28:08 Practical Exercises for Cultivating Peace

39:12 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Peacemaking

54:30 Final Thoughts on Trusting God in Relationships

*Pixabay Music: "Exciting Day" and "Atmospheric Inspirational"

In today’s episode, I’m excited to introduce you to the Relay App, www.joinrelay.app a powerful recovery tool designed to support individuals struggling with compulsive behaviors—especially around pornography and sexual addiction.

Founded by Chandler Rogers and Jace Kendrick, Relay offers a unique, team-based approach to healing. It combines daily emotional check-ins, structured accountability, and real community—because recovery doesn’t happen in isolation.

I’ll be sharing three short intro videos by Chandler Rogers to help you get a feel for what Relay is all about and how it can support your journey (or the journey of someone you love).

If you're interested in trying out the Relay App, I'm offering a 20% discount on subscriptions for my listeners. Just email me at [email protected], and I’ll be happy to send you the link. ✨ Please note: I do not receive any profit or commission for promoting Relay. I'm simply passionate about sharing helpful, practical resources with anyone navigating unwanted sexual behaviors.

If you'd like to directly email Relay's customer service, email them at [email protected]

🔒 Disclaimer: I do not claim ownership over any of the Relay content shared in this episode. All material belongs to the founders of Relay.

Takeaways:

-Faith in Feels aims to break the taboo around mental health and sexual brokenness.

-The Relay App provides a supportive community for recovery from sexual addiction.

-Understanding the emotional pain behind addiction is crucial for healing.

-Connection is essential in overcoming isolation and addiction.

-Relay offers a structured program with daily check-ins and accountability.

-79% of users report improvement within four weeks of using Relay.

-The app allows for personalized recovery plans based on individual needs.

-Community support is vital for maintaining motivation in recovery.

-The first week of using Relay is free, allowing users to explore without risk.

-Healing involves addressing underlying wounds, not just stopping behaviors.

*Chandler Rogers Intro Video:

Intro Video 1 begins at 6'53

Intro Video 2 begins at 11'24

Intro Video 3 begins at 23'21

Website Recommended : www.joinrelay.app

Pixabay Music : "Exciting Day" and "Delicate Reverie"

In this special episode of Faith and Feels, I’m sharing a recent seminar I gave at VAY (Vietnamese American Youth Leaders Christian Conference) on June 22nd, 2025. I spoke on the journey from brokenness to wholeness in relationships—covering topics like love addiction, trauma bonding, and the deep need for healing through Jesus.

Together, we explore how our past wounds impact our present connections, and why knowing your identity in Christ is essential for freedom. I also introduce practical tools like the Faster Scale to help identify destructive patterns and encourage honest conversations with your accountability partners, mentors, and even God Himself. Whether you’re a youth leader, student, or just curious about how faith and psychology intersect, this episode is for you.

*New episodes drop every other Monday starting in July—be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next!

Recommended Resources:

www.puredesire.org

www.puredesire.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/faster-scale-check-in-2017-1.pdf

www.selfloverainbow.com

www.slaafws.org/40-questions/

Book:

"The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" by John Mark Comer

Pixabay Music: "Exciting Day" and "Delicate Reverie"

In this episode of Faith and Feels, I sit down with Dr. Esther Park, a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of outpatient clinical experience. Dr. Park shares her powerful journey from medical school to discovering her true calling in psychiatry, and how that shift led to the birth of something much bigger than herself.

Together, we talk about her work as co-founder of Oak Health Center, a for-profit mental health clinic that accepts insurance, and the heart behind its nonprofit counterpart, Oak Health Foundation. Dr. Park unpacks how this Christian-based foundation is working to reduce mental health stigma, prevent suicide, and provide donor-funded care through its out-of-pocket clinic, Fully Health.

I loved hearing how she integrates faith, mental health, and community outreach with a holistic, Christ-centered lens. Tune in to hear how Dr. Park is not only a psychiatrist but a visionary building bridges between clinical care and spiritual healing. Plus, you’ll get a glimpse into her personal joys—from hosting dinner parties to traveling the world.

Recommended Resources:

www.oakhealthfoundation.org

www.oak.care

For info on FREE & VIRTUAL "Renew and Revive Spiritual Support Group":

www.oakhealthfoundation.org/fullyhealth/resources/

Takeaways:

Dr. Esther Park is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist.

Common issues in children include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.

Medication can be a necessary part of treatment, even for faith-based families.

Psychoeducation helps parents understand mental health better.

The brain is an organ that can have medical issues just like the heart.

It's important to treat mental health issues early to prevent chronic conditions.

Dr. Park emphasizes the importance of hope and healing in her practice.

The vision for Oak Health Center is to serve multiple communities.

Renew and Revive is a spiritual support group that integrates psychology and faith.

Seeking help for mental health is crucial and should not be done alone.

Pixabay Music: "Exciting Day" & "Mixaund Sunrays"

In this poignant episode of Faith and Feels, I sit down with Pastor Curtis and Carol Lowe to hear their powerful story of calling, ministry, marriage, and faith. Married for over 40 years, Pastor Curtis and Carol reflect on the journey God has taken them on—through seasons of parenting, ministry, cultural bridge-building, and deep spiritual growth. Pastor Curtis shares his journey from seminary to earning his Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation, and how becoming a certified spiritual director has shaped his heart for walking with others. With years of experience pastoring in diverse, multicultural churches—including Asian American congregations—he reflects on the deep spiritual and cultural lessons he’s learned along the way.

Carol shares her upbringing in Los Angeles, her career in IT at Jet Propulsion Lab and Boeing, and how she made the decision to stay home and raise their children during years of active ministry.

But what makes this episode especially powerful is what they share about their 17th year of marriage—when everything came to a breaking point. They vulnerably talk about the suffering they faced with their mental illness (bipolar disorder, ocd, and depression), and how God’s agape love met them in the deepest places of pain. The simple phrase, “we’re working on it,” became a lifeline—anchored in forgiveness, mercy, and the grace of Jesus.

I encourage you to listen all the way through—you don’t want to miss their moving testimony of how God rebuilds, renews, and resurrects even what feels beyond repair. This is a conversation filled with hope.

Recommended Resources:

Pastor Curtis and Carol's Website

www.enlightenmentalhealth.org

Marriage/Couple Support

www.familylife.com

www.familylife.com/learn/courses/art-of-marriage/

www.familylife.com/weekend-to-remember

www.focusonthefamily.com

www.lesandleslie.com

www.youandmeforever.org

Books:

"Meaning of Marriage" by Timothy Keller

"You and Me Forever" by Francis and Lisa Chan

*Pixabay Music: "Exciting Day" and "Mixaund Happiness"

Takeaways:

Pastor Curtis and Carol share their journey through marriage and mental illness.

The importance of mentorship in the church community.

Forgiveness is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy marriage.

Communication styles can differ greatly between partners.

The 17th year of marriage marked a significant turning point for the couple.

Community support is vital for couples facing challenges.

It's essential to seek help when dealing with marital issues.

Agape love is the foundation of a Christ-centered marriage.

Couples should remember their wedding vows during tough times.

Marriage requires ongoing effort and commitment.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Faith in Fields and Guests

06:01 Purpose of the Marriage Seminar

12:06 Mentorship and Community Engagement

19:14 Struggles in Marriage: Forgiveness and Communication

27:39 The 17th Year: A Turning Point in Marriage

43:51 Encouragement for Couples in Crisis

57:56 Conclusion and Reflection on Agape Love

In this episode of Faith and Feels, I sit down with Jean Yan, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is pursuing her Ph.D in Clinical Sexology. She is also trained in the Gottman Method and Hypnotherapy. We talk about why it’s so important to have honest conversations around sexual health and intimacy—especially within the Asian American faith-based community.

Jean shares her journey into the field of clinical sexology, and we dive into the role of sexual education, the silence many women experience around their sexual health, and how faith and mental health intersect with our understanding of sexuality.

This episode is all about breaking shame, building awareness, and making space for healing conversations we don’t often hear in church.

(*For Mandarin Speaking Listeners, tune into her encouragement in Mandarin at 35 minutes 33 seconds!)

Recommended Resources:

Jean Yan's Website www.healthiercouples.com

Book suggested "Come As You Are: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life" by Emily Nagoski

Marriage/Couples support. www.gottman.com

Pixabay Music : "Exciting Day" and "Waterfall"

Takeaways:

Jean Yan is a licensed marriage family therapist who is pursuing clinical sexology.

Clinical sexology focuses on healthy sexual behavior and health.

Many therapists avoid discussing sexual issues with clients.

Sex education is crucial for both children and adults.

Intimacy encompasses more than just sexual intercourse.

Women often feel embarrassed to discuss their sexual health.

Creating safe spaces for conversations about sexuality is essential.

Cultural barriers can hinder discussions about sexual health.

Advocating for oneself is important in seeking help.

Faith can play a significant role in addressing sexual health issues.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Faith in Fields and Guest Introduction

02:47 Exploring Clinical Sexology and Its Importance

06:11 Understanding Sexual Health and Therapy

09:07 Personal Experiences and Aha Moments in Therapy

12:04 The Impact of Sexual Abuse and Trauma

14:55 The Significance of Sexual Education

17:51 Advocating for Sexual Health in the Asian Community

20:47 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations

23:59 Encouragement for Women in Their 50s

26:51 Closing Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of Faith and Feels, I sit down with Bree Brasher, a college student in her fourth year at Whittier College studying social work and psychology, with dreams of pursuing law. Bree shares her powerful story of being adopted at three years old, growing up in a Christian home, and navigating the challenges of identity, toxic relationships, sexual brokenness and shame during her college years.

With honesty and depth, Bree opens up about how her faith was tested—and ultimately transformed—through heartbreak, community, and the healing power of God’s love. She talks about learning to surrender control, the importance of support systems, and how she found freedom from guilt and emotional pain.

Whether you're a college student, someone healing from broken relationships, or simply exploring how faith intersects with personal pain, this episode offers encouragement, hope, and a reminder that God can redeem even the most painful parts of our story.

Pixabay Music : "Exciting Day" and "Small Miracles"

Takeaways:

Bree's journey reflects the struggle of finding faith amidst personal challenges.

Toxic relationships can lead to a loss of identity and faith.

The importance of community and support in healing from trauma.

Understanding the impact of early life experiences on adult relationships.

Surrendering to God's will can lead to personal freedom and healing.

Navigating the complexities of faith and relationships in college.

The significance of accountability in maintaining faith and values.

Recognizing the difference between love and lust in relationships.

The journey of healing often involves confronting painful truths.

God's grace is present even in our lowest moments. It's important for individuals to know Jesus for themselves, not just through others.

Going to church for someone else can lead to resentment.

Treasure your single season and focus on personal growth.

Relationships can sometimes be a way to fill emotional voids.

Not every relationship is meant to lead to marriage.

Timing and readiness are crucial in relationships.

Community and support are vital for spiritual growth.

Addressing struggles with sexuality requires openness and honesty.

Surrendering to God is essential for healing and purity.

Understanding God's love can transform one's perspective on past mistakes.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Faith and Healing Conversations

01:31 Bree's Background and Faith Journey

05:26 The Impact of Early Life Experiences

09:21 Navigating Toxic Relationships

20:02 Breaking Free from Idolatry in Relationships

27:13 Finding Redemption and Healing

29:31 The Journey of Faith and Relationships

31:52 Navigating New Relationships and Expectations

34:39 Understanding the Purpose of Dating

36:54 The Importance of Timing and Readiness

39:44 Finding Freedom in Singleness

42:36 Building Community and Spiritual Growth

45:58 Addressing Struggles with Sexuality and Sin

49:42 Surrendering to God and Seeking Purity

53:57 The Transformative Power of God's Love