We’re taking a pause from our normal programming to talk about racism; more specifically, what can we as individuals do to help make a better future for people of all ethnic backgrounds? Joining the show today is Dominique Johnson, a pastor and entrepreneur, to give us his insights as a person of color and his thoughts on how the church can help bridge the divide.

In this abbreviated episode, we’ll be introducing the topic of depression to our show. What is the difference between it and being sad? What are common triggers? Also, if you’re in ministry, how do you model your struggles with depression from the pulpit that is healthy and not just word-vomiting?

This week, we’ll be starting a discussion on anxiety; how to identify it, how to start a conversation with someone you might think be experiencing it, and how to be present for someone without trying to fix all their problems. We’ll also take a look at Philippians 4 and what it means to not be anxious from a theological perspective, plus Michael will divulge the real reason why vocational ministers drink so much coffee.

This week, we want to honor and congratulate our graduating high school seniors by bringing one on to our show! Elijah Shoaf and his mother, Kim, become our first guests on the pod as they discuss what it’s been like to finish high school during the pandemic, having a graduation ceremony from home, and what it’s been like to look ahead to the next season of life.