theFormed.life

Introduction:

In this episode of theFormed.life podcast, hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman are thrilled to welcome back Dr. Julia Sadusky, a clinically licensed psychologist based in Colorado, who specializes in the complex intersections of sexuality, gender, and theology. Having previously joined the podcast as one of its very first guests, Dr. Sadusky returns to delve deeper into the challenges faced when engaging our youth in conversations about sexuality and gender. The discussion includes reflections on past podcast episodes, practical guidance on engaging children and teens, and insights from Dr. Sadusky's new two-part book series aimed at equipping parents with the tools to have ongoing, meaningful conversations with their kids. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or anyone with influence on young lives, this episode offers valuable perspectives and resources for navigating these vital topics with sensitivity and understanding. Tune in as we explore these pressing issues with thoughtfulness and grace.

Bio:

Julia Sadusky is a thoughtful explorer of the complex relationship between personal identity and the inherent goodness of the human body. She delves into the nuanced understanding of accepting one's physical existence as a gift, even amidst the struggles and distress often experienced in embodiment. With a focus on reconciling these challenges, Julia reflects on the eternal promise that all tensions and difficulties related to the human condition will ultimately be perfected in a manner beyond even the original paradise of Eden. Her work encourages a greater appreciation of the body’s created goodness while navigating the inherent trials of living fully within it.

Quotes

• "The Importance of Parental Apologies": "Nobody comes to therapy with me and processes a moment where their parent apologized and took responsibility for something. And then they say, wow. That really harmed me when my parent took responsibility for the mistake they made."
• "Protective Language for Kids": "When we look at the research of what protects against sexual abuse in children, the number one thing that protects against sexual abuse is knowing the accurate language for my genitalia."
• "Unity in Diversity: Embracing Different Angles in Conversations on Sexuality": "There's been just the giftedness of communion and unity, in difference, in the different ways that we might and the angles of entry that we might bring to these conversations."

3 Main Takeaways

1. 
   Continuous Conversation on Sexuality and Gender: Dr. Sadusky emphasizes the importance of ongoing, age-appropriate conversations with children and teens about sexuality and gender, rather than a single talk. These conversations help build trust between parents and children and allow parents to be seen as reliable sources of information amidst a highly sexualized culture.
2. Engagement with Personal Stories: Reflecting on one's own sexual story is crucial for integrating sexuality with following Jesus. Parents are encouraged to explore their own histories, as personal experiences can impact how they engage with the topics of sexuality and gender, not only for themselves but also when guiding their children.
3. Ecumenical Collaboration and Education: The episode highlights the collaboration across different Christian traditions to address topics of sexuality and gender. While Dr. Sadusky's books are published under a Catholic perspective, they aim to be accessible and valuable to a broader Christian audience, emphasizing commonalities across denominations in addressing sexual health and ethical living.

Resources

Books

• Start Talking to Your Kids About Sex - Dr. Julia Sadusky: https://www.amazon.com/Start-Talking-Your-Kids-about/dp/1646802225
• Unwanted - Jay Stringer: https://www.amazon.com/Unwanted-Sexual-Brokenness-Reveals-Healing/dp/1631466720
  
  

Websites:

• Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender - Preston Sprinkle: https://www.centerforfaith.com/
  
  

Podcasts

• theFormed.Life Podcast: POD 003 - Dr. Julia Sadusky (2022 podcast episode): https://youtu.be/R1B-tx9BnUY?si=nUzasvQWe78OCUeu
• theFormed.Life Podcast: POD 034 - Dr. Philippe Duveille (podcast episode): https://youtu.be/eKSq0VkxOE0?si=RtPO-rzf5k0ien64
  
  

Timestamps:

00:00 "Podcast Episode Insights with Dr. Sadowski"

04:49 "Gender Expression Through Love's Lens"

07:15 "Submitting Desires, Embracing Embodiment"

12:24 Unexpected Book Shift: Childhood Challenges

16:05 Early Christian Sexuality Education

17:43 Teach Kids Accurate Anatomical Terms

22:49 Navigating Desires and Stories

23:56 "Praying Honestly About Desires"

29:51 Engaged and Unified Christian Leadership

32:53 Teen Sexuality and Technology Guide

33:57 Navigating Bodily Changes and Dysphoria

37:31 Embracing Parental Vulnerability

41:11 "From Podcast Guest to Hairstylist"

Hashtags:

#GenderTheology #ParentingConversations #ChristianUnity #SexualityEducation #EmbodiedFaith #DrJuliaSadusky #ChristianParenting #FaithAndIdentity #SexualIntegrity #theFormedLifePodcast

Keywords:
sexuality, gender identity, parenting, adolescents, theology, embodiment, sexual orientation, puberty, social media, sexual education, Christian vision, sexual language, genitalia, boundaries, exploratory play, faith-based institutions, distress, theology, The Form Life Podcast, sexual abuse prevention, Young Life, ecumenical work, Catholic perspective, Protestant, Ave Maria Press, essential conversations, intimacy, attraction, pornography, masturbation, technology use

In this episode Dan and Mindy Ott share their wisdom, challenges, and the joys of raising young men anchored in spiritual growth. From the importance of intentional family gatherings to the art of giving children choices, the Otts offer practical tips and heartfelt stories that illuminate how parenting shapes not only our children's lives but our own spiritual journeys as well. Whether you’re navigating the early years, walking alongside teenagers, or transitioning to parenting adult children, this conversation is packed with inspiration and encouragement. Tune in to explore how parenting in partnership with faith can be a powerful, life-giving experience.

Bio

Dan Ott is a dedicated father and insightful voice on the transformative journey of parenting. Alongside his wife, Mindy, Dan has navigated the joys and challenges of raising three wonderful boys, ages 15 to 20. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to discussions on parenting, emphasizing its profound impact on every aspect of life—spiritual, emotional, and practical. As a special guest on the Form Life podcast, Dan shares his heartfelt insights and personal stories, offering support and guidance to parents, grandparents, and anyone who supports families and children in their communities. Through his journey, Dan illustrates the beautiful complexities and rewards of parenting, making a meaningful contribution to this vital conversation.

Quotes

"Parenting is one of the most beautiful and challenging callings we can undertake, and it touches every aspect of our lives, spiritually, emotionally and practically."

• Bill Gorman

 "And all of life very much includes parenting."

• Paul Brandes

"Parents, don't frustrate your children with no win scenarios. Instead, take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master."

• Paul Brandes

Three Takeaways

1. Parenting with a Long-Term Perspective: Mindy Ott emphasizes focusing on raising children to be good adults rather than just well-behaved kids. This long-term perspective alleviates the pressure on parents to control every behavior in the moment and allows children to experience and learn from typical developmental behaviors like tantrums.
2. Community and Intergenerational Relationships: The Ott family highlights the importance of community and church involvement in parenting. They discuss the significant role that their church community has played in the spiritual growth of their children, emphasizing the value of children being known by and interacting with adults and peers in a faith-based setting.
3. Family Rhythms and Engagement: The Otts share their intentional practices, such as having breakfast together as a family, to foster connection and spiritual development. Despite the challenges, they reiterate the value of shared meals as opportunities for family bonding, prayer, and setting a positive tone for the day

Resources 

• A Praying Life: Connecting with God in a Distracting World - Paul Miller 
• The 4 Habits of Raising Joy-Filled Kids: A Simple Model for Developing Your Child's Maturity- at Every Stage
  

Timestamps

00:00 Exploring Parenting's Impactful Journey
05:21 Thanksgiving: D&D and Legos
09:20 Family Plans for Church Baptism
12:43 Parenting Reflections and Spiritual Growth
14:39 Parenting Lesson: Offering Choices
19:11 Raising Boys into Good Men
22:34 Power of Parental Apologies
25:30 Church Community Nurtures Youth Connections
28:37 Handing Down Faith Across Generations
30:45 Increase Engagement in Activities
34:41 Family Meal Time Priorities
38:37 Morning Reflections on Parenthood Choices
42:07 "Family Mornings and Spiritual Gatherings"
45:55 Parenting Adult Children Insights
46:37 Proud Parent Reflects on Son's Growth

Hashtags

#ParentingWisdom #SpiritualFormation #FamilyFaith #RaisingBoys #CommunitySupport #IntergenerationalFaith #FaithJourney #PrayerHabits #ChurchCommunity #theFormedLifePodcast

Keywords

Parenting, Spiritual Formation, Faith, Church Community, Raising Boys, Family Life, Challenges of Parenting, Transformative Power of Parenting, Emotional Aspects of Parenting, Practical Parenting, God in Family Life, Nurturing Kids Faith, Building Family Connections, Parenting Chaos, Spiritual Growth, Baptism, Church Involvement, Community Support, Parenting Strategies, Giving Kids Options, Forgiveness in Parenting, Engagement in Children's Activities, Family Meals, Family Gatherings, Morning Routine, Prayer, Hospitality, Intergenerational Relationships, Importance of Community, Parenting Adult Children

How do we navigate the ethical and personal challenges of sports betting from a Christian perspective? In this episode of theFormed.life, Darren White, Executive Director of the Center for Sports Analytics at Samford University helps us explore the explosive growth of sports gambling, its impact on fan engagement, and the importance of self-awareness and transparency. Join us as we examine the delicate balance between enjoyment and caution, offering thought-provoking perspectives for both sports enthusiasts and those curious about the intersection of faith and recreation.

Bio

Dr. Darin W. White is the Executive Director of the Center for Sports Analytics at Samford University and Chair of the Entrepreneurship, Management & Marketing Department, as well as the Founding Director of the Sports Marketing program. He has built business relationships with top sports organizations and corporate sponsors, including MLB, NBA, NFL, Adidas, Nike, Coca-Cola, and Manchester United. Before joining Samford in 2009, Dr. White spent 12 years as a college soccer coach, earning Coach of the Year honors and leading Union University to a national championship.

Quotes

"If you work on the business side of sports, you're very excited about the fact that, you know, gambling is now legal because it's a way to get the fans to engage at a deeper level than before."

• Darin White

 "You need to be really, really cautious. In a lot of ways, it's it's similar to alcohol. You know, alcohol is a is a, you know, something that could lead to great devastation, and there's so many examples of that. Right? But when done in moderation and when done, you know, in the the proper context, I think it falls under the the, you know, the heading of of grace, if you will."

• Darin White

Three Takeaways

1. 
   Self-Awareness and Intentions: Darin White emphasizes the importance of evaluating our intentions and the state of our heart when engaging in activities like sports betting. He suggests using prayer and reflection to assess the impact and recommends a 3-month break as a test for potential addiction.
2. Transparency and Accountability: Open conversations about gambling habits are crucial. Keeping secrets, especially from a spouse, can be a warning sign of addiction. Darin advocates for complete transparency in sharing one's gambling activities with loved ones.
3. Christian Perspective on Moderation: From a Christian viewpoint, Darin discusses the balance between enjoying sports betting in moderation and recognizing potential pitfalls. He draws parallels to other areas like alcohol consumption, advising caution and discernment.

Resources 

• 
  "Dopamine Nation" - For understanding the role of dopamine in addiction.
• The Gospel Coalition - Darin's article on sports betting.
• WHOOP - A company focused on human flourishing through data & technology.

Help and Support:

• 
  If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem, visit here for support and resources.

Timestamps

00:00 Discussing the surge and legality of sports betting.

06:31 ESPN integrates sports betting for seamless experience.

08:18 Gambling legalization enhances sports fan engagement.

11:40 College sports are rapidly transforming financially.

17:05 Connecting faith and meaningful work beyond compensation.

20:13 Investing in Whoop enhances human flourishing; gambling doesn't.

21:37 Betting reflects heart's intention: selfishness or enjoyment.

27:33 Creativity in sports reflects divine image bearing.

30:32 Betting deepens engagement and enjoyment in sports.

32:30 Caution urged due to addiction risk in gaming.

34:55 Dopamine fuels gambling addiction through anticipation.

40:45 Embrace grace, live freely in Christ's salvation.

44:26 Analyzing data to help soccer team promotion.

45:22 Darin discusses Christian college's positive impact.

Hashtags

#SportsBettingEthics #ChristianLiberty #ResponsibleGambling #FaithInSports #TransparencyMatters #DopamineImpact #FanEngagement #SportsAnalytics #ChristianPerspective #theFormedLifePodcast

Keywords

self-awareness, sports gambling, alcohol consumption, biblical prophet Jeremiah, deceitfulness of the heart, prayer, addiction test, responsible gambling, Europe sports gambling, Darin White, Dopamine Nation, emotional engagement, sports team betting influence, transparency in gambling, gambling secrecy, spousal knowledge in betting, Christian perspective on sports betting, legalization of sports betting, state legislation on gambling, church attendance and gambling, surge in sports betting, ESPN Bet, sports teams and betting partnerships, NCAA settlement, college sports business, Whoop device, Christian liberty in recreation, fantasy sports leagues, competition in heaven, ethical considerations of gambling, balance in sports gambling.

How can we effectively address burnout in our modern lives? Joining us today are repeat guests Liz and Tom Nelson, who provide personal, theological, and psychological insights on the topic. Discover practical strategies to manage life's pace, the importance of Sabbath and community, and how to nurture a secure relationship with God to combat burnout. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted moment as our guests share their favorite ice cream flavors. Join us for a concise, impactful discussion on finding balance and fulfillment amid life's demands.

Bio

Tom Nelson is the Lead Senior Pastor of Christ Community Church, which he founded over 30 years ago, and serves as president of Made to Flourish, a network empowering pastors to promote human flourishing. He is the author of *Work Matters*, *Economics of Neighborly Love*, and *The Flourishing Pastor*, and speaks nationally on faith, work, and economics. Tom holds degrees from Dallas Theological Seminary and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, serves on the board of regents at Trinity International University, and lives in Leawood, Kansas with his wife, Liz, and their two grown children.

Liz Nelson holds an MA in Counseling from MidAmerica Nazarene University and is a Clinically Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas. Specializing in adult counseling for individuals and couples, she utilizes psychodynamic theory and an attachment perspective to address personal and relational struggles. With over two decades of experience in the Kansas City non-profit community, Elizabeth is dedicated to supporting leaders, caregivers, and volunteers and practices at re:Vive Hope Link Counseling in Overland Park.

Quotes

"Burnout is definitely on the increase. I mean, there's all kinds of validation scientifically that it is wearing us down. It is ruining our health. It can ruin individual economic, scenarios. But, most of all, I would put it on a spectrum. I would say, burnout is, not just how we relate to others, it's how we relate to ourselves."

• Liz Nelson

"Who are the people we trust that if we hit rock bottom, they aren't gonna walk out the door on us. They're gonna listen well. They're gonna pay attention, and they're gonna journey with us in our recovery."

• Liz Nelson

"I don't ever remember in my early years of pastoring where there was the level of conversation around burnout. And I think across the spectrum of mental health professionals, professionals who work in the caring kind of places, there is a shocking amplification of that in people's lives."

• 
  Tom Nelson

"God does not expect or give us more to do than we can handle. I mean fundamentally, and most of that pace that's unsustainable, too hard, burns us out, exhausts us, is driven by other false ideas or impoverished ideas about ourselves, about life."

• 
  Tom Nelson

Three Takeaways

1. 
   Holistic and Community-Centered Solutions: Burnout affects emotional, physical, vocational, and spiritual aspects of life. Recognizing burnout early and taking a holistic approach—including understanding personal limits, maintaining healthy rhythms, and relying on community support—is vital. 
2. Biblical Insights and Stories: The story of Elijah from 1 Kings 19 illustrated the nature of burnout. Tom Nelson discusses Elijah's depletion, isolation, and fear, and the episode drew parallels between biblical themes and modern experiences. Practical insights, such as the importance of rest and celebrating achievements, are framed within biblical teachings like Psalm 23 and Jesus' invitation to the weary.
3. Practical Strategies for Preventing Burnout: Strategies to manage life’s pace and prevent burnout included maintaining a weekly Sabbath, ensuring healthy sleep patterns, and prioritizing appropriately based on life’s seasons. The framework of "pace, patterns, and people" was emphasized, along with identifying personal triggers and seeking community support. The episode concluded with advice for fostering joy and flourishing through intentional lifestyle changes.

Resources 

Book

Attachments: Why You Love, Feel, and Act the Way You Do - Tim Clinton & Gary Cibcy

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

04:34 Trusted confidants offer truth during distress.

09:15 Increased burnout conversations among care professionals.

13:01 Elijah increases isolation; discusses safety net importance.

14:14 Celebrate achievements to prevent burnout.

18:14 Engagement, withdrawal, sabbatical, burnout: Elijah's story teaches.

22:41 PACE pattern prevents unsustainable, hurried life pace.

25:04 Identify triggers in prayer and community discussions.

28:23 Secure, supportive relationships transform and support lives.

30:25 You are not responsible for others' happiness.

35:57 Jesus leads as the Good Shepherd to rest.

39:21 Prioritizing God's presence over people's presence.

40:40 God's grace guides choices for joyful living.

44:48 Thank you for your inspiring conversation and expertise.

46:37 Thanks for joining the Form Life podcast.

Hashtags

#BurnoutAwareness #SpiritualRest #HolisticHealth #CommunitySupport #TheologicalInsights #SabbathRest #EmotionalWellbeing #JesusInvites #ManagingPace #theFormedLifePodcast

Keywords

burnout, mental health, theology, divine presence, isolation, Elijah story, holistic care, burnout among professionals, Psalm 23, spiritual recovery, life balance, happiness responsibility, reassessment of priorities, Sabbath practice, rest and reflection, supportive relationships, stress management, identifying personal triggers, sustainable pace, weekly Sabbath, maintaining sleep patterns, community support, life season shifts, emotional recovery, recognizing triggers, nurturing activities, restoring spiritual wellness, practical care, self-care strategies, soul storming

READ the written blog on our website:
https://theformed.life/2024/12/noticing-in-silence-05/

READ the written blog on our website:
https://theformed.life/2024/12/noticing-in-silence-04/

READ the written blog on our website:
https://theformed.life/2024/12/noticing-in-silence-03/

READ the written blog on our website:
https://theformed.life/2024/12/noticing-in-silence-02/

READ the written blog on our website:
https://theformed.life/2024/11/noticing-in-silence-01/

How can churches responsibly engage with artificial intelligence to benefit their communities? In this episode of theFormed.life, we step into this crucial question with theologian and AI ethics expert Joshua K. Smith. Joshua discusses how churches can actively participate in the ethical use of AI, from generating prayer templates to assisting with Bible translations. He emphasizes the need for faith communities to take a proactive stance in tech conversations, ensuring AI's potential is harnessed for societal good while protecting vulnerable populations. Come and engage with this thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of the Church and AI.

Bio

Joshua K. Smith, Ph.D. (Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary), draws on his diverse experiences in the military, ministry, and academia to guide thoughtful discussions on the challenges humanity faces in an AI-driven world. As an author and scholar specializing in the theology of robotics and technology, he helps the local church and broader audiences navigate complex ethical and philosophical issues emerging alongside advancements in artificial intelligence. Smith has written three books, including his most recent work, Violent Tech: A Philosophical and Theological Reflection, which explores the profound implications of AI and robotics on society and faith.

Quotes

"We need as many people as possible to come to this conversation as scientists, as pastors, as politicians, as teachers, as moms and dads to say, these are things that we're concerned about."

• Joshua K. Smith

"Do I value human connectedness? Do I value the work and trade of a human? Or do I just want the product faster and cheaper?"

• Joshua K. Smith

"It might solve some of our bigger problems. Not all of them. There is still sin. That's what I try to help designers understand. It's like there's still brokenness. It will never be a perfect creation."

• Joshua K. Smith

Three Takeaways

1. Leveraging Dormant Resources for Connectivity: Joshua highlighted the untapped potential of "dark fiber" cables in providing internet access to rural communities, outlining how churches can play a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity, especially during times of crisis.
2. Ethical Use of AI: From raising concerns about data privacy to exploring the positive impact of AI in areas like disease treatment and community support, Joshua stressed the importance of an ethical approach in deploying AI technologies to ensure they benefit society while safeguarding vulnerable groups.
3. Inclusive and Proactive Church Engagement: Joshua urged churches to be proactive rather than reactive regarding technology use. By engaging in tech conversations and potentially funding research, churches can advocate for ethical practices and integrate technology to enhance community well-being.

Resources 

Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man - Marshall McLuhan 

Robots Are People Too - John Frank Weaver 

Artificial Intelligence for a Better Future - Bernd Carsten Stahl 

The Age of Surveillance Capitalism - Shoshana Zuboff

Timestamps

00:00 Exploring theology and AI themes with Josh.

05:10 Small community grew into pervasive technology discussion.

07:02 Data exploits push targeted ads to consumers.

13:13 General AI is unpredictable, potentially transformative yet flawed.

15:29 Distinguish ChatGPT, machine learning, and AI nuances.

18:52 AI: Big calculator, struggles with hands, caution needed.

21:06 Blurred line between AI advancements and value.

25:28 Language models: Cheating, translations, sermons, humanitarian uses.

27:26 Jacob used AI to write prayer deceptively.

30:57 Churches' role in guiding technology for good.

34:48 Utilize churches: Connect communities using unactivated internet.

39:46 Nashley Cephas revitalizes Jackson with major investment.

42:39 Technology needs regulation to prevent exploitation.

45:39 Church design often challenges introverted, autistic individuals.

47:55 Old churches, technology, reverence, amplified sound, importance.

51:14 Thanking Josh for his time and generosity.

Hashtags

#CommunityConnectivity #TechEthics #DigitalStewardship #AIinMinistry #InternetAccess #ResponsibleInnovation #ChurchTechnology #EthicalAI #JoshuaKSmith #theFormedLifePodcast

Keywords

rural internet access, church internet solutions, dark fiber cables, community connectivity, technology in church, ethical data usage, protecting vulnerable online, AI in church communities, Bible AI technology, ethical AI implementation, community space utilization, Dead Sea consumer analogy, protecting children online, shift in tech ethics, Genesis technology analogy, regulation of technology, Sabbath and technology, psychological benefits of disconnection, inclusive church technology, autism and worship, reactive church technology use, Marshall McLuhan church tech impact, interdisciplinarity in AI ethics, large language models, AI decision-making, AI misuse risks, balancing tech use, AI in disease treatment, AI in autism support.