Have you ever wondered how spirituality can intertwine with mental health to guide us on a path of self-discovery and healing? Join your hosts Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver as we open our hearts and share the deeply personal drives that led us to create 'Holistic and Holy.' Our latest conversation is a celebration of the growth and revelations we've experienced along this journey, pairing the light-hearted banter of our sessions with the profound subjects that touch our lives and the listeners who tune in.

Wander with us through the tranquil corridors of a church, where our partnership bloomed into a sanctuary for both mind and soul. Here, we've embraced the challenge of integrating counseling practices within a spiritual framework, creating a space where privacy meets holistic care. Our episodes not only reflect on the powerful synergy of faith and therapy but also honor the stories of resilience and authenticity shared by our guests, friends, and family. Together, we've built a community that finds strength in vulnerability and connection in shared wisdom.

As we wrap up the current season, we're not just looking back; we're looking forward. Our dialogues have inspired us to keep pushing boundaries, nurturing a platform that resonates with those seeking to lead a life that is holistic and, yes, holy. Whether you're a longtime listener or just joining us on this trek, you'll find solace in the stories, practices, and laughter that fill each episode of 'Holistic and Holy.

We've all faced moments that shook us to our core, where we stand at the crossroads of bitterness or growth. Join us as we embark on a journey through the intricate world of resilience and the remarkable transformation known as post-traumatic growth. This conversation delves into how our darkest experiences can unexpectedly illuminate new pathways, shaking the foundations of our relationships and strengthening our inner fortitude. We share deeply personal stories, including my own dance with overprotection in parenting, and how these trials have the power to reshape our perspectives on life.

Navigating the aftermath of emotionally taxing relationships, especially with narcissists, can feel like trekking through a minefield blindfolded. But what if I told you that empowerment and knowledge could be your guiding light? We dissect the layers of rebuilding trust in oneself and the profound impact it can have on your journey ahead. Taking a leaf from our own chapters, we discuss the fine line between shielding our loved ones and allowing them the freedom to grow through adversity. With heartfelt anecdotes and a special nod to the empath's plight, we explore the delicate balance between protection and independence in relationships and parenting.

As we wrap up this deep dive, we invite you to consider the holistic tapestry that is your well-being. It's not just about mental fortitude but nurturing your physical and spiritual health as well. We leave you with insights into the importance of self-care routines, the nourishment of the soul, and the pursuit of harmony across all facets of life. Connect with us on our social platforms at holisticandholycom for an ongoing dialogue about resilience, growth, and the beauty of human transformation. Let's walk this path together, discovering the resilience that weaves through our existence and propels us toward a life of depth and meaning.

When Natalie Craver and I, Chad McSwain, first grappled with the reality of LGBTQIA+ acceptance in our lives and ministries, we knew it was a conversation worth having. With Natalie's insights as a licensed professional counselor and my pastoral perspective, we've come together to bring you a heartfelt exploration of what it means to truly embrace compassion and understanding in the church. As your hosts, we unpack our personal stories, the beauty of unlearning prejudices, and the necessity of fostering relationships that affirm and uplift every individual on their journey toward wholeness and holiness.

Navigating the maze of identity, labels, and love within LGBTQ+ relationships can be daunting, but it's a path worth walking with grace. We discuss the paramount importance of asking for pronouns, respecting how someone identifies, and the ripple effects this respect can have on our relationships. This episode isn't just about getting it right – it's about the courage to engage, to listen, and to affirm one another in love, even when we're afraid of saying the wrong thing. We believe in building bridges through open communication and creating spaces where everyone feels seen and valued.

Churches have the profound potential to be sanctuaries of inclusion, and we delve into practical steps for creating these supportive communities. From the pivotal role of parental love in the lives of LGBTQ youth to the necessity of education and allyship within the congregation, we offer guidance and resources to help families navigate this terrain with love at the center. Listen in as we share how churches can be a haven for healing and growth, where every family's journey is met with empathy and every individual is welcomed as a cherished part of the body of Christ. Join us in cultivating a church that thrives on diversity and unconditional love.

Ever felt like navigating adult relationships is like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube in the dark? Well, you're not alone. Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver here, opening up about the trials and triumphs of forming genuine connections in today's world. Reflecting on our own experiences, we acknowledge how the shadows of our childhood and the example set by our parents can heavily influence our adult social circles. We delve into the importance of self-love and how it's not just a buzzword but a crucial step on the road to establishing meaningful relationships, especially for those in leadership and ministry roles who often grapple with loneliness.

Attachment styles aren't just for psychology textbooks—they're the blueprints of how we interact with those around us. Secure, avoidant, anxious, or disorganized, these styles are the lenses through which we view our connections. By sharing our personal evolutions through these attachment styles, we offer a rare glimpse into the transformation from a past marred by trauma to a present filled with healthier relationships. It's a journey of self-awareness and growth, showing that it's not just about spotting these patterns, but understanding them as integral parts of who we are—parts that can change and develop over time.

To top off our heart-to-heart, we consider how our spiritual life is entwined with our earthly bonds. The divine attachment we experience, whether it's a fear of rejection or the comfort of unconditional love, can cast a long shadow on our human relationships. We offer practical tips to step beyond your comfort zone and form connections that heal and empower, from joining a Bible study to reaching out over coffee. Through personal anecdotes, we share how community and empathy can blossom from the most unexpected places, building friendships that are both surprising and fulfilling. Join us on this exploration of the heart, and perhaps you'll find the courage to unlock your own Rubik's Cube of relationships.

Have you ever found yourself grappling with pain where you least expected it—in the very faith community that was supposed to offer sanctuary? Alongside United Methodist pastor Chad McSwain and licensed professional counselor Natalie Craver, we unearth the raw and real stories of religious trauma. This episode promises a journey of understanding, empathy, and a roadmap for anyone searching for healing after experiencing hurt within their spiritual homes.

Our conversation traverses the tangled web of personal beliefs and the expectations of a faith community, where the line between spiritual guidance and emotional scars is sometimes blurred. We share personal narratives that touch on the heartache of exclusion, the isolation that can loom over church leaders, and the struggle to create authentic connections in the face of denominational biases and strained family ties. It’s a candid look at the unique challenges faced by those who lead and those who follow, and a reminder of the resilience required to navigate the emotional landscape of church communities.

In a world that deeply needs inclusivity and safety, this dialogue is a beacon for those seeking to reconcile their identity with their faith, particularly within the LGBTQ community. We explore the generational beliefs that cage personal growth and the subtle messages that can either weave a sense of belonging or alienate individuals. Ending on a note of hope and practical steps, we offer affirmations and wisdom for those walking the path toward healing, affirming that spirituality can indeed be both holistic and holy. Join us as we bridge the gap between spirituality and mental health, paving the way for a future where religion is a source of unconditional love and acceptance.

Imagine carrying around an invisible suitcase from your childhood, stuffed with all the unspoken rules, roles, and expectations of your family of origin. Ever wondered how this hidden baggage influences your relationships, your parenting style, or even how you respond to your favorite sitcoms? Well, buckle up. We're about to crack open these weighty suitcases together and make sense of what's inside.

In a revealing exploration of birth order, we shed light on the unique dynamics experienced by middle children or second-borns with older sisters, and the seismic shift of being an only child before gaining a sibling. We also dissect our favorite sitcom family from the show "Bear", unearthing the parallels with our own family roles and quirks. Through the lens of therapy, we navigate these intricate dynamics with sensitivity and non-judgment, offering insights that can illuminate our understanding of self and others.

Then, we dive into the complicated task of blending family backgrounds, and the pivotal role our upbringing plays in shaping our parenting styles. We'll share stories about couples navigating their differences, the societal changes impacting our parenting choices, and the pressing need for self-awareness and open communication. Finally, we'll discuss how understanding and respecting each other’s backgrounds can help establish boundaries, creating a healthy and harmonious family dynamic. So, join us on this journey of self-discovery as we unpack our family origins and the profound impact they have on our lives.

Ever grappled with discussing sexual desires openly with your partner? Or perhaps, you've wondered how to maintain a healthy sexual relationship amidst life's stresses and changes? Join us, Chad and Natalie, on this journey of exploring intimacy, communication, and sexuality in relationships. We share our personal experiences and insights, taking the plunge into the much-needed, yet often overlooked, discussion on the difference between secrecy and privacy, and how to keep the sexual spark alive through various life-stages.

"What if you were told that understanding your partner's love language could be the key to a fulfilling sexual relationship?" We have heard it before, now it's time to dig deeper into its true essence. From our own personal experiences, we provide insights on how to navigate frustrations in sexual relationships, underlining the vital role of vulnerability and open communication. We don't leave any stone unturned as we approach sensitive topics like sexual compatibility and its myths, the need for having sex before marriage, and the impact of religious upbringing on sexual attitudes.

Closing off this enlightening episode, we emphasize the significance of self-love, healing, and the power of feeling protected and cared for in a relationship. Our audio engineer, Jake Dickerson, also chips in to facilitate a heart-to-heart conversation on building trust and friendship through vulnerability. Let's kick-start the movement of engaging, honest, and open discussions about sex in relationships. Engage with us on our social media platforms, and remember, we're all in this journey together!

What if we told you that grief, a topic often avoided, could be a path to healing and growth? Natalie and Chad expose the complexities of grief, painting a vivid picture of this dense emotion we all inevitably experience. We compare it to an endless highway, constantly changing, yet persistently stretching ahead. We grapple with the societal tendency to shy away from those engulfed in sadness, and the misconception that misfortunes are exclusive to the wicked.

We don't stop at just contemplating grief; we walk you through it. We take a detour to discuss anticipatory grief - the mourning for something that has yet to happen. Although a rather grim topic, we take a personal approach, sharing our own encounters with grief. We highlight the power of empathy, and how imagination plays a significant role in forming connections with those who are grieving. 

As we traverse the path of grief, we emphasize the importance of vulnerability. We argue that mourning is a necessity, akin to journeying through the darkness before basking in the light of resurrection. We untangle the concept of 'shoulds' and its tie to grief, and we share insights on how to grieve well. We confront the anger that stems from unresolved grief, and the misconception of a timeline for grieving. Join us on this enlightening journey, as we illuminate the path through the tunnel of grief.

What if I told you that everyone has experienced trauma, even if it doesn't seem significant? It might not be a catastrophic event, but how we process our experiences and the narratives we create around them leave an indelible impact. We embark on a profound exploration of trauma, discussing its intricate connection with our sense of control and the irrational negative beliefs that ensue. The journey towards understanding trauma is not a solitary one; we share our own experiences, shedding light on how trauma has shaped us and how we chose to heal.

You'll learn about innovative techniques like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Internal Family Systems Therapy, which have proven to be highly effective methods of treating trauma. We decode how EMDR works at a cellular level using bilateral stimulation of the brain. Hear about the importance of bodily sensations and self-communication, and the power of connecting with others who've walked similar paths. One of our hosts, who lost her husband in the Iraq war, shares her moving journey of loss and healing. We discuss the role of yoga in healing and the impact of touch in the recovery process. This episode is a deep, empathetic conversation about trauma, healing, and the transformative power of therapy. Come, be a part of this journey.

Join us on an intimate exploration of shame and its many faces. Leveraging personal anecdotes and real-life experiences, Chad McSwain, a United Methodist pastor, and Natalie Craver, a licensed professional counselor, take you on an enlightening journey into understanding this profound emotion. This deep dive into shame is a safe space for self-reflection, providing tools to navigate the spiraling world of shame, guilt, and self-criticism, and most importantly, how we can break free.

A deep ponder into self-awareness, we explore how shame influences our reactions and behaviors, identify situations of its unnecessary control, and learn to respond, not react. The power of language and its role in fostering shame and guilt are brought to light, revealing how simple words can spiral into self-criticism. Drawing on ancient stories and personal experiences, we dissect the differences between guilt, the feeling of doing something wrong, and shame, the belief of being inherently wrong. This exploration encourages mindful thinking, empowering us to challenge and redefine our relationship with shame.

Venturing into the sensitive topics of suicide and self-harm, we dissect the impact of shame on these life-altering matters. By using understanding and supportive language, we shed light on navigating through these tough situations and the importance of open communication. Join us as we navigate the complex terrain of shame, suicide, and the unforgivable sin, equipped with empathy, forgiveness, and understanding. This episode is a beacon of hope for those living in the shadow of shame, a testament to the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and communication in managing shame and its repercussions.