Health & Wellness In Focus

In this episode of Health & Wellness in Focus, host Dr. Bryan Hudson talks with mental-health professional Bryson Davis, President of Onward & Upward Counseling, about how mentoring, life coaching, trauma awareness, and practical mental-health habits can help individuals build healthier, more stable lives. With 24 years of experience in counseling, violence intervention, reentry support, and trauma-focused therapy, Davis explains the importance of understanding triggers, slowing down, accepting what we cannot control, and seeking help when patterns don’t change. He discusses cultural and generational barriers—especially among men in the Black community—that often prevent people from asking for support, emphasizing that many struggles stem from “generational habits” rather than curses. Davis also breaks down his clinical specialties, including EMDR, TF-CBT, and work with youth affected by maladaptive behaviors, highlighting how early prevention and skilled guidance can bring healing and lasting change.

Contact Bryson Davis:

www.facebook.com/bryson.davis.754

Podcast Summary PDF:

https://0554ca18-1367-4da4-bc98-15ec46a2abb7.usrfiles.com/ugd/0554ca_61b4ea54cc094c50a0169bb6d54f4c0b.pdf

In this episode, Pastor Bryan Hudson, DMin, will host a conversation with Varon Cantrell, MD. He is a Board Certified Internist and Pediatrician who works for a Federally Qualified Health Center whose home base is in Indianapolis, Indiana. After Medical School, he completed his Combined Residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. He then completed one year as a Chief Resident in Internal Medicine while staffing/precepting the Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Clinic.

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In July of 2010, Dr. Cantrell, joined a Federally Qualified Health Center in Indianapolis where he continues to work. He was the Lead Physician for the opening of a new Health Center on the Westside of Indianapolis that has grown from 1 Provider up to 7 and from 3,000 visits to over 14,000 visits in 7 years.

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The timely topic of this episode is: “Chronic Disease Prevention: Reclaiming Health in the Black Faith Community." Join us for an empowering and solution-focused discussion on how faith, knowledge, and action can work together to transform health outcomes in our community. We’ll address the chronic diseases that disproportionately impact African Americans—such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease—and explore how churches and faith communities can be a vital partner in prevention, education, and healthy living. Through practical strategies, inspiring testimonies, and a commitment to holistic wellness, we’ll learn how to reclaim health, strengthen families, and honor God with our bodies.

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Watch on YouTube. Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and Spotify. For program and podcast links to this and other programs, visit the New Covenant Church Health & Wellness in Focus webpage: https://www.newcovenant.org/hwif

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Produced by Vision Communications Media LLC and Bryan Hudson, D.Min. http://visionmediaexperts.com

We are affiliated with the Wellness Connection, Inc. https://www.wellnessconnectionindy.org

In this episode, Min. Corey Jones, M.Div. will host a conversation with Nichole Kelley, BSW, MSM. She is an educator, mentor, and leader within Indianapolis Public Schools. Nichole is also a Pike Township school board member.

The timely topic of this episode is: “Supporting Students, Supporting Staff: Trauma-Informed Education.”

From the classroom to school policy, trauma affects both students and staff in significant ways. Discover how trauma-informed approaches can help create healthier, more supportive environments in schools and beyond.

Watch on YouTube. Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and Spotify. For program and podcast links to this and other programs, visit the New Covenant Church Health & Wellness in Focus webpage: https://www.newcovenant.org/hwif

Produced by Vision Communications Media LLC and Bryan Hudson, D.Min. http://visionmediaexperts.com

We are affiliated with the Wellness Connection, Inc. https://www.wellnessconnectionindy.org

Health & Wellness In Focus Episode #19 – Coping With Grief & Loss: “Light in Your Valley”
Host: Dr. Bryan Hudson | Guest: Dr. Stephen E. Gardner

Program Summary

Dr. Gardner’s links:

LinkedIN, www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-e-gardner-edd-ma-ct-6823b4b

Everyday Consulting, www.everydayconsulting.org

Crown of Hope International. www.crownofhope.org

In this insightful episode of Health & Wellness In Focus, Dr. Bryan Hudson interviews Dr. Stephen E. Gardner—a pastor, theologist, veteran advocate, transformational coach, and independent scholar—on the theme “Coping With Grief & Loss: Light in Your Valley.”

Key Highlights:

1. The Multifaceted Nature of Dr. Gardner’s Work:

Dr. Gardner views his roles beyond the pulpit, engaging with the community on issues like death, loss, and personal transformation.

His work with veterans especially involves shifting from post-traumatic stress to post-traumatic growth.

2. Understanding Grief Beyond Death:

Loss includes not only death but also life transitions like job loss, shifting beliefs, or health setbacks.

Grief is both emotional and neurological—highlighted by Dr. Gardner’s recommended book The Grieving Brain by Mary-Frances O’Connor.

3. The Four Tasks of Mourning (based on Dr. William Worden):

Accept the Reality of the Loss – Acknowledge what has happened, even if heart and mind aren’t in sync.

Process the Pain of Grief – Embrace emotions like guilt and sadness without rushing to “move on.”

Adjust to a World Without the Deceased – Including identity changes, especially for spouses or long-term caregivers.

Find a Way to Maintain Connection While Moving Forward – Through legacy, memory, or service.

4. Harmful Coping Practices:

Telling people to “snap out of it” is unhelpful and often stems from discomfort or fear.

Over-spiritualizing grief or using shallow platitudes can invalidate real feelings.

5. Integrating Faith with Mental Health:

Faith is essential but must be paired with informed mental health practices.

Spiritual responses should not replace therapy or professional help.

Ministry of presence—being there without words—is often more healing than scripture alone.

6. Cultural Competence in Counseling:

One-size-fits-all approaches fail across cultural lines.

Dr. Gardner advocates for respectful, “user-centered” care that adapts to clients’ cultural and spiritual contexts.

Professionals should ask: “How can I help you in a way that respects your culture?”

7. Encouraging Mental Health Careers:

There's a great need for more culturally competent professionals, particularly from underrepresented communities.

Churches and pastors should present these fields as mission and kingdom work.

8. Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health:

Many avoid counseling due to fear of judgment or appearing “broken.”

Seeking help should be normalized like seeing a doctor for a broken arm.

9. The Power of Meaning-Making:

Healing accelerates when people can find purpose or meaning in their loss.

Dr. Gardner shared his personal story of losing his mother at 18 and how he found strength through understanding her legacy and completing his life mission.

Final Thoughts:

Dr. Gardner stresses the importance of community, competent care, and courageous vulnerability when facing grief. Pastor Hudson reinforces that churches should be wellness hubs that connect people to the full range of care they need.

Viewers and listeners are encouraged to share the episode to help others who may be experiencing grief or loss.

Guest: Lora Henderson, MA,MBSR,MEI, Beautiful Mindz LLC

https://www.beautifulmindz.me

Host: Min. Corey Jones

Producer: Bryan Hudson, Vision Communications Media LLC

Our guest is Lora Henderson, a highly experienced advocate in health, mental health, and community outreach. Henderson holds degrees in sociology and organizational management, is a certified mental health counselor and mindfulness coach, and has worked extensively with organizations like NAMI and the Department of Corrections.

The episode is focused on the theme “Anxious for Nothing: Releasing Worry, Embracing Peace, and Stress Relief.” Henderson shared insights on mindfulness practices, emphasizing how faith and mindfulness intersect through biblical principles like stillness, peace, and trust in God. She explained mindfulness techniques such as box breathing, straw breathing, and guided meditation, highlighting the importance of gentle breathing and being present in the moment with God.

Key points discussed included:

Mindfulness as a biblical practice, not limited to other religions.

Techniques like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for managing overthinking and stress.

The importance of deep breathing for toxin release, emotional health, and stress relief.

How children and adults alike can benefit from mindfulness practices.

Common misconceptions about mindfulness, especially among people of faith.

The use of nature walks, journaling, and mindfulness music as practical tools for emotional wellness.

Lora Henderson also shared the RAIN method for handling overwhelming emotions:

Recognize what’s going on

Allow the experience

Investigate with kindness

Natural awareness (detach from the experience)

The conversation concluded with encouragement to release worry, embrace stillness with God, and practice deep, mindful breathing daily for peace and improved health. Resources and contact information for Lora Henderson were also made available for those interested in mindfulness coaching and workshops.

"Health & Wellness in Focus" program and podcast on Tuesday, March 18

Episode #17 theme: “A Survivor’s Journey: Caregiving and Breast Cancer Recovery”

Podcast Summary: Health and Wellness in Focus, Episode #17

This episode of the Health and Wellness in Focus podcast, brought to you by New Covenant Church

Health Hub and produced by Dr. Bryan Hudson and Vision Communications Media LLC. This episode

focuses on the journey of breast cancer survivor Sister Jeanette. Hosted by Minister Corey Jones, the

episode highlights faith, advocacy, and the power of community in overcoming health challenges. Also

highlights the support of her granddaughter and caregiver Kiara Meadows.

Key Themes and Discussion Points:

1. A Survivor’s Journey:

◦ Jeanette shares her personal experience from the moment she discovered a lump during

a self-exam to her eventual diagnosis of stage one triple-negative breast cancer.

◦ She describes the emotional impact of receiving the news and how she turned to faith,

prayer, and her support system for strength.

2. Faith as a Source of Strength:

◦ Despite facing disbelief, anger, and fear, Jeanette found solace in her faith. She

emphasized how God provided her with the strength and people to support her through

the process.

◦ She leaned on her church, Little Bethel Baptist Church, where her pastor and

congregation continuously supported her.

3. The Role of Advocacy in Healthcare:

◦ Initially, doctors recommended a mastectomy, but Jeanette sought alternative treatments,

advocating for herself to explore options to preserve her breast.

◦ The conversation emphasized the importance of seeking second opinions, voicing

concerns, and ensuring patients take an active role in their treatment plans.

4. Caregiving and Emotional Support:

◦ Jeanette’s granddaughter, Kiara, served as her primary caregiver, accompanying her to

treatments and providing emotional and physical support.

◦ She stressed the importance of caregivers being present, showing love, and keeping

their loved ones engaged to prevent feelings of isolation and depression.

5. Encouragement for Others Facing Similar Battles:

◦ Jeanette and Kiara shared messages of hope, urging those battling cancer to lean on

God, seek support, and not be afraid to advocate for themselves.

◦ Caregivers were reminded to offer emotional and spiritual support, ensuring their loved

ones never feel alone in their journey.

6. Closing Message:

◦ The episode concludes with encouragement for listeners to support, uplift, and pray for

those battling cancer.

◦ Listeners are encouraged to share the podcast with those who may benefit from its

message of hope and faith.

This episode is a powerful testament to the strength found in faith, family, and community when facing

life’s toughest challenges.

Episode #16 theme: “Journey to Health: A Personal Story”

Host: Dr. Bryan Hudson

Guests: Faith McKinney and her health coach, Michael X. Banks

Program & Podcast Website: https://www.newcovenant.org/hwif

Faith McKinney Website: https://www.faithmckinney.com

Michael X Banks Website: https://www.walkitout.us

Summary of the Podcast:

Health and Wellness in Focus with Dr. Bryan Hudson

This inspiring episode shares the transformational health journey of Faith McKinney, a kidney donor, author, and caregiver who overcame significant health challenges, losing over 100 pounds and reclaiming her life.

Key Highlights:

Faith's Story:

Kidney Donation: In 2009, Faith donated a kidney to her cousin, which heightened her awareness of the importance of health.

Weight Gain and Challenges: Over the years, stress, caregiving responsibilities, and the pandemic led her weight to rise to 274 pounds. She experienced severe mobility issues and health risks, including being close to needing dialysis.

Turning Point: A trip to Tennessee in 2022 highlighted her health challenges, inspiring her to make a change. She began walking and working out regularly.

Health Journey:

Faith initially worked with a trainer but realized that diet was more impactful than exercise in achieving sustainable weight loss.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes: She adopted intermittent fasting and focused on nutritious eating, losing weight consistently at seven pounds per month.

She now participates in half-marathons and advocates for walking as a path to fitness.

Role of Community:

Support System: Faith joined "Walk It Out America," an organization promoting health and fitness through walking and proper nutrition. The group provided accountability, encouragement, and a judgment-free environment.

Impact on Others: Faith’s transformation inspired family and friends to embark on their health journeys, proving the ripple effect of personal change.

Coach Michael X. Banks' Insights:

Body's Healing Power: Michael emphasizes the body's natural ability to heal when given the right support through proper nutrition and intermittent fasting.

Education and Support: He highlights the importance of educating people about their digestive systems and creating supportive communities to ensure lasting change.

Key Takeaways:

Sustainable weight loss requires lifestyle changes, focusing on proper diet and consistent habits.

Support and community are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving health goals.

Gradual, realistic changes lead to long-term success.

Faith's Advice:

Start small and make manageable changes.

Seek support and don’t try to go it alone.

Remember, it’s not about quick fixes—it’s a lifelong commitment to health and well-being.

Closing Message:

Dr. Hudson, Faith, and Coach Banks encourage listeners to take action, seek help if needed, and be inspired by Faith's journey. They stress that transformation is possible with the right mindset, education, and community support.

The episode is available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Share it to inspire others and start your own health journey today!

Episode #15 of "Health & Wellness In Focus" program and podcast for Tuesday, November 26

TOPIC: "Mental Health for the Holidays"

Produced by Bryan Hudson, D.Min.

New Covenant Church

Vision Communications

www.newcovenant.org

www.visionmediaexperts.com

Our special guest is Camishe Nunley LMHC, founder of Healing Your Hidden Hurts.

www.healingyourhiddenhurts.com

www.facebook.com/HealingYourHiddenHurts

Summary of Conversation with Camishe Nunley by Bryan Hudson

Episode #15 of Health and Wellness in Focus focuses on mental health during the holiday season, hosted by Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min. and featuring Camishe Nunley LMHC, a licensed mental health counselor. Nunley shares her expertise on navigating emotional challenges and fostering mental health through a combination of psychological expertise and faith.

Key Highlights

1. Guest Introduction and Background:

a. Camishe Nunley has dedicated her career to promoting mental health, empowerment, and

emotional wholeness within the church community.

b. Her journey was shaped by personal experiences with family mental health challenges, leading

her to integrate spiritual concepts into psychological practices.

c. She is currently pursuing a doctorate to deepen her impact in the field.

2. Mental Health Challenges During the Holidays:

a. Common struggles include loneliness, grief, financial stress, and unrealistic expectations.

b. Nunley emphasizes the importance of practicing "radical honesty," acknowledging emotions

without guilt, and addressing them with grace.

3. Faith and Mental Health Integration:

a. Nunley integrates spirituality with mental health practices through a method called Dialogical

Hermeneutics, helping clients find meaning and healing.

b. She encourages faith communities to embrace psychological expertise alongside spiritual

practices for holistic well-being.

4. Practical Advice for the Holidays:

a. Acknowledge emotions: Create space for grief or sadness while celebrating the memory and

legacy of lost loved ones.

b. Focus on connection: Foster meaningful relationships by being present, listening

compassionately, and avoiding judgment.

c. Gratitude and perspective: Shift focus from what’s lacking to what remains, balancing joy with

struggles.

5. Encouragement for Mental Health Professionals:

a. Nunley calls for more mental health professionals, particularly from underrepresented

communities, to address growing needs.

6. Support for Pastors and Caregivers:

a. Pastors and caregivers must prioritize their own mental health through transparency, spiritual

intimacy, and professional support.

b. The First Shepherd Pastoral Mental Health Task Force provides resources for pastors to maintain their well-being.

7. Encouragement to Seek Help:

a. Nunley advises against merely “pushing through” challenges, advocating instead for seeking

assistance, building resilience, and trusting God’s transformative work during difficult times.

Closing Thoughts

The conversation emphasizes the importance of mental health as an ongoing journey, particularly during emotionally charged seasons like the holidays. Listeners are encouraged to embrace both faith and expertise in addressing mental health challenges while fostering gratitude, connection, and resilience.

Pastor Hudson expresses gratitude for Nunley’s contributions and highlights available resources for further support.

"Health & Wellness In Focus" Episode #14

The Topic: “Fitness for Different Life Stages”

Guest Website: https://jacobidavis.com

Our guest is Jacobi Davis, owner of GoHard Productions. His passion is empowering people to reach their goals for health and personal fitness. You will be informed and inspired by this discussion!

Learn more about the Wellness Connection at www.wellnessconnectionindy.org

Podcast available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music

Brought to you by the Wellness Connection, New Covenant Church Wellness Hub, and Vision Communications.

Produced by Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min.

www.visionmediaexperts.com

Today’s Guest Pastor James Carrol is originally from Kankakee, Illinois. He is a graduate the of the UNiversity of Arkansas is the Pastor of Greater Shepherd Missionary Baptist Church here in INdianapolis where he has been leading and serving for over 20 years. It is the Vision of Pastor Carrol to empower God’s people in the city of Indianapolis to experience spiritual growth, educational advancement, and. Financial liberty through his preaching teaching and by obeying the divine orders from the Lord.

Voted Indy’s 2013 People’s Choice award for pastor of the year Pastor Carrol is a Board member of Wellness Connection Indy and the Faith Based Coordinator at the Indiana Department of Health. Go ahead and bless the Lord as we welcome Pastor James Carrol to the Health and Wellness Program and podcast

Topic: “A Faith Based approach in Addressing Minority Health Disparities"