We are certainly wayfaring beings passing through this life in all it's wonder. Dr. Warren Kinghorn is an expert in psychiatry and theology at Duke University, where he examines the intersection of mental health and Christian theology. We were so excited to meet him!

Dr. Kinghorn defines what Mental Health actually is! We probably should do that right?... but surprisingly, it isn't something that we can tie up in a neat bow, don't worry though, it is helpful to hear his thoughts about this.

He discusses his book, Wayfaring: A Christian Approach to Mental Health Care, which uses the metaphor of a journey to explore mental health, spiritual formation, and Christian living. The chat will prompt you to consider the significance of understanding your life in the context of relationships, stressors and broader cultural systems, rather than just individual symptoms!

Dr. Kinghorn also elaborates on the essential components of mental health, he discusses thoughts about medication, and the need for holistic, accurate care.

Warren's book "Wayfaring, A Christian Approach to Mental Health Care" is available here: https://a.co/d/4u9VOQq

If you are interested in studying a hybrid Certificate in Theology and Health Care at Duke, take a look here: https://divinity.duke.edu/initiatives/tmc/formation

It's a heartfelt and powerful episode folks. Lara D'Entremont shares her lived experience from her new book 'A Mother Held: Essays on Motherhood and Anxiety.' Lara discusses her own challenges of motherhood, including dealing with parenting twins, autism diagnoses, postpartum depression, and birth trauma. She emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help, finding identity in Christ, and the impact of community support. The conversation also highlights practical advice on being present for your children and the significance of nurturing love over perfectionism.

If you haven't hear of Nijay Gupta, you will be glad that you gave him your time today because it was worth every second to sit with him! His thoughts honestly shaped our thinking and direction on Rise and Form. It's clear that Nijay is a sharp theologian who has particular insights into Pauline theology but he is also just so kindly cool, composed and ridiculously insightful.

He is also an award-winning author, blogger, speaker, and New Testament professor at Northern Seminary. Dr. Gupta has authored several influential books, with his latest work 'Strange Religion'.

The episode focuses on spiritual formation as the concept of being 'in shape' spiritually and the vital role of relationships and spiritual direction in achieving growth in faith.

Perfect for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of spiritual maturity and seeking direction in their spiritual journey.

Exploring Trauma and Post-Traumatic Growth with Dr. Adam Dell. Dr. Dell served as Director of Emotional Wellbeing at the Notre Dame Wellness Center with Premise Health and also served as an Active Duty Psychologist with the United States Air Force.

Dr. Dell draws on 20 years of clinical experiences to offer insights and practical solutions with audiences.

Dr. Dell shares his insights on trauma, the psychology of behavioral change, and the profound concept of post-traumatic growth. Drawing from his extensive academic background and clinical practice, as well as his personal journey as a father and a thoughtful Christian, Dr. Dell elucidates the complexities of trauma and the pathways to resilience and healing.

A seriously formative and challenging sit-down with Dr. Mandie Shean, Australian Psychologist and Author of a new book called "Turning Points".

Dr. Shean shares about her research and personal experiences on resilience, burnout, self-worth and developing a rising mindset! Her book is a summation of 9 years of her research integrated with her own stories. This episode cuts through some of the true-isms to bring an honest and informed perspective on what we need to have in place in our lives to rise from difficulty and adversity.

Dr. Shean emphasizes the importance of self-worth, the role of boundaries, and the necessity of addressing both past and current challenges to foster resilience. She also discusses the detrimental effects of a risk-averse society on personal growth and the need for children and adults to face challenges. Dr. Sheen talks about her own experience with burnout, the importance of self-care, and strategies for teaching the body to feel safe again.

She shares practical advice on balancing work, dealing with stress, and ensuring personal well-being.

Abe and Andrea have an honest and insightful conversation with JD Peabody, author and founding pastor of New Day Church, about his journey with anxiety and OCD. Jeff shares the impact of vulnerability and faith in managing anxiety, offering a fresh perspective on the Armor of God. The dialogue touches on formative experiences, the power of words, and how leaning into the discomfort can lead to strength and healing. Throughout the discussion, Jeff emphasizes the importance of casting cares on God and viewing anxiety as an opportunity for transformation rather than something to be eradicated.

Steve has 28 years in church leadership, including 16 as a lead pastor. On this ep, Steve shares through his lived experience of leadership anxiety, and offers insights from his new book "The Expectation Gap".

Steve dives into how assumptions can block our vision and our faith. He provides practical and hopeful ideas into how to challenge and remove assumptions to get unstuck and thrive in our life of worshipping Jesus.

"Assumptions are like a bedrock. They're like a terrorist sleeper cell. They're always there, whether you know that they’re or not, and they’re activating." - Steve Cuss

Check out Steve's website here!

https://www.stevecusswords.com/

and his amazing new book: https://a.co/d/0bmtcDMR

"So your podcast is cool, but who are you guys?" We have been hearing this feedback a lot, so we're here to have a little "cuppa" and share our story with you. Abe and Aundrea share some of their own life experiences and the thinking and heart behind Rise and Form; where it came from and where it is headed!

Pastor Dave Teixeira from Cedar Mill Bible Church in Portland, Oregon brings more gold on how to conceptualise God's design for relationships.

Some key points:

The term "helper" is redefined as a term of strength and reinforcement, often used to describe God. "Suitable" is explained as "like opposite," indicating a complementary and equal relationship.

The importance of celebrating differences rather than being frustrated by them. The idea of "like opposite" is essential for a balanced and fulfilling relationship.

The fall introduced competition, envy, and jealousy into relationships. Before sin, differences were celebrated and contributed to mutual growth and flourishing.

Relationships should aim to cultivate each other's potential for mutual benefit and human flourishing, similar to how Adam was tasked with cultivating the garden.

We referenced Pastor Dave's 8 week sermon series on Genesis (which is 🔥 - no joke!! so good). See it here: https://www.cedarmill.church/series/goodandevil

Special Episode: Inside out 2 Reflections and Reactions!

*Spoiler Alert* This episode really does contain spoilers.

Paul Asay is a christian film critic and writer. He is also a wonderful human who has researched and written extensively about mental health and depression. We get a little embarrassing as we share some of our vault stories and we get real, as always.

Paul Asay:

"In "Inside Out 2," Riley's core belief is "I am not good enough," a sentiment many, including myself, resonate with. We often hear those voices in our heads telling us we're failures. Every day, we have the power to choose how we respond to the world around us. I'm acutely aware that some people struggle with this on a much deeper level than I do, and it can be incredibly difficult to wake up and choose hope. However, I've learned that pushing through negative emotions, which can be deceptive especially when our brains aren't functioning optimally, is vital." - Paul Asay