Unpacked Podcast

This week on Unpacked we chat with guests Stephanie and Lisa, retired house flippers and a sweet couple. Stephanie and Lisa share their emotional stories of coming out, navigating the challenges of finding forgiveness with their parents and compassion for their families. They share the struggles they faced, the triumphs they celebrated, and the important life lessons they've learned along the way. Stephanie and Lisa shed light on what they wish more people understood about the LGBTQ+ community and foster a deeper understanding of diverse identities. Their insights highlight the importance of creating safe spaces and supportive communities for everyone, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Their stories are not without struggle as they share the experience of alienation from a religious community due to their LGBTQ+ identity. We talk complexities of faith, spirituality, and the path towards healing. We explore the question of a safe community and the difference between fitting in and belonging.

The producers and co-creators of the Unpacked Podcast present a special series 10-part series Shoulder to Shoulder. Shoulder to Shoulder is co-hosted by  Evan Dewald, Tara Linsley and Kevin Castanherio unpacking the relationship between the church and the LGTBQ+ community with ex-pastors, inclusive churches, thought leaders, and LGBTQ+ members. Episodes drop weekly on Tuesdays.

The goal is not to change your mind, but we are here to challenge that we can disagree and still love. We can disagree and include. We can disagree, stand up for the marginalized, and take responsibility for harm. And there is room for all in this space as we come together.

Shoulder to Shoulder is brought to you by Kevin Castanheiro and Joel Fortier in partnership with Unpacked Podcast.

LINKS
-Episode 1 Introduction Series
-Episode 2 Joel Hubbard
-Episode 3 Joel Fortier
-Episode 4 Pastor Judy Howard Peterson
-Episode 5 Coming out U
-Episode 6 Brian Nietzel
-Episode 7 Diane Morton 

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound

This week on Unpacked Tara and Evan chat about what it means to live with an invisible illness.  Tara Linsley is the owner, of Digitial Marketing Strategist and Co-host Unpacked Podcast.  We switch things up by sharing Tara's story of living with a chronic illness and rare auto-immune disease. Tara shares the journey of diagnosis up to what her life is like day to day now. She talks about the emotional and physical changes and finding freedom in acceptance of a lifelong illness. We chat about the grief of a diagnosis and illness, health privilege in relationships and the strategies she learned to manage shame and boundaries. 

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

LINKS
-Body Keeps the Score
-Unpacked Pod - Enneagram Instincts
-Art of Growth Enneagram Certificate
-Unpacked Pod - Enneagram Part 1
-Unpacked Pod - Enneagram Part 2

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound

This week on Unpacked we chat with guest Bill White, Co-Pastor at City Church in Long Beach. Bill shares his extraordinary journey from a conservative evangelical pastor to a place of acceptance and theological diversity. Join us for an authentic and thought-provoking conversation that delves into the heart of embracing differences and holding space for diverse perspectives.

Bill spent 25 years fully immersed in the evangelical world, serving as a missionary, parachurch staff, and pastor. Life took an unexpected turn when his two children bravely identified as gay, prompting him to shift his perspective towards a more post-evangelical path. Bill opens up about his profound journey of transformation, leading his church towards becoming a theologically diverse haven where differences are not only accepted but valued. During this episode, we explore the concept of growth in tensions, learning to hold both seemingly conflicting ideas in our hearts and minds. Bill shares the significance of this process and the impact it had on his relationship with his son, his congregation, and the wider LGBTQ+ community.

The producers and co-creators of the Unpacked Podcast present a special series 10-part series Shoulder to Shoulder. Shoulder to Shoulder is co-hosted by  Evan Dewald, Tara Linsley and Kevin Castanherio unpacking the relationship between the church and the LGTBQ+ community with ex-pastors, inclusive churches, thought leaders, and LGBTQ+ members. Episodes drop weekly on Tuesdays.

The goal is not to change your mind, but we are here to challenge that we can disagree and still love. We can disagree and include. We can disagree, stand up for the marginalized, and take responsibility for harm. And there is room for all in this space as we come together.

Shoulder to Shoulder is brought to you by Kevin Castanheiro and Joel Fortier in partnership with Unpacked Podcast.

LINKS
-Episode 1 Introduction Series
-Episode 2 Joel Hubbard
-Episode 3 Joel Fortier
-Episode 4 Pastor Judy Howard Peterson
-Episode 5 Coming out U
-Episode 6 Brian Nietzel
-Episode 7 Diane Morton

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound

This week on Unpacked we are chatting with Jake Stika, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Next Gen Men. We chat with Jake on gender-based issues related to the social and emotional development of young men and boys, the health and well-being of men in communities, workplaces and their vision for a future where boys & men experience less pain, and cause less harm. We talk about power dynamics, breaking down gender roles, what to say to young men and boys, how to create more inclusive spaces at home, school and at work.

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Links
-Next Gen Men
-Raising Next Gen Men Course Online
-Next Gen Men Learning Tools
-@nextgenmen

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound

This week on Unpacked we chat with guest Diane Morton, Retired Special Ed Teacher and mother to a transgender person. Diane's experience as a mother of a trans child brings to light the fears and worries that many parents face when their child comes out as transgender. Through her story, Diane demonstrates her journey of acceptance, growth, and unwavering love. As a former teacher who specialized in working with special needs students, she shares the parallels between advocating for her students and supporting her trans child. Diane's unique perspective sheds light on the importance of creating inclusive spaces, where everyone can be seen and heard. Diane offers practical tips for promoting understanding, respect, and compassion, fostering an environment where everyone can feel affirmed and valued for who they are.

The producers and co-creators of the Unpacked Podcast present a special series 10-part series Shoulder to Shoulder. Shoulder to Shoulder is co-hosted by  Evan Dewald, Tara Linsley and Kevin Castanherio unpacking the relationship between the church and the LGTBQ+ community with ex-pastors, inclusive churches, thought leaders, and LGBTQ+ members. Episodes drop weekly on Tuesdays.

The goal is not to change your mind, but we are here to challenge that we can disagree and still love. We can disagree and include. We can disagree, stand up for the marginalized, and take responsibility for harm. And there is room for all in this space as we come together.

Shoulder to Shoulder is brought to you by Kevin Castanheiro and Joel Fortier in partnership with Unpacked Podcast.

LINKS
-Book: If I was your girl by Meredith Russo
-Episode 1 Introduction Series
-Episode 2 Joel Hubbard
-Episode 3 Joel Fortier
-Episode 4 Pastor Judy Howard Peterson
-Episode 5 Coming out U
-Episode 6 Brian Nietzel 

Support the show

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound

What if you didn't have to be controlled by old patterns that are playing out from unprocessed stories from your past? What if your future wasn't filled with lingering anger or unsettling worry?

This week on Unpacked Evan takes us through his workbook Recess: Finding Freedom in Writing a New Story. Using this processful process and the lens of the Enneagram personality tool you will be guided through an experience with your life story as the central work. Drawing from his expertise with over 30 years of pastoral care and personal experiences, Evan shares practical tools and exercises from the workbook, allowing us to break free from self-limiting beliefs and explore the vast possibilities of our true potential. We chat about the transformational benefits of reflecting on your past, discuss self-compassion, the unique narratives that can hold you back and share the 4 best questions to ask for the path to healing. Spoiler alert: this work is not done alone. A guide, support or a coach, group or friends - like all stories we are not alone so why would we assume healing works that way! Learn how to embrace your unique story, rewrite the narratives that hold you back, and step into a life of authenticity, purpose, and freedom. Get ready to unleash your inner strength and discover the practice of transforming your life story into a story of growth and resiliency. 

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

LINKS
-Recess Workbook
--Recess Creek Coaching
-Follow Recess Creek on Instagram
-Art of Growth Enneagram Certificate
-Unpacked Pod - Enneagram Part 1
-Unpacked Pod - Enneagram Part 2

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound

This week on Unpacked we chat with guest Brian Nietzel, Founder of Making Things Right. Making Things Right is a space to invite and equip Christians to better love and serve the LGBTQ+ community. Brian shares his mission to create new conversations and relationships between Christians and the LGBTQ+ community. We chat with Brian about his story of being gay and loving Jesus, why reconciliation between the LGBTQ+ community and the church is important, his concept of the quieter middle of people who are on the fence and how we can bridge the gap. He challenges us to ask do you want to defend a position or people? Brian lives with his husband, Dan, and two daughters in Atlanta, GA.

This is just the beginning and we are looking forward to sharing the Shoulder-to-Shoulder series with you. Love has a bigger table, there is a seat for you here with us.

The producers and co-creators of the Unpacked Podcast present a special series 10-part series Shoulder to Shoulder. Shoulder to Shoulder is co-hosted by  Evan Dewald, Tara Linsley and Kevin Castanherio unpacking the relationship between the church and the LGTBQ+ community with ex-pastors, inclusive churches, thought leaders, and LGBTQ+ members. Episodes drop weekly on Tuesdays.

The goal is not to change your mind, but we are here to challenge that we can disagree and still love. We can disagree and include. We can disagree, stand up for the marginalized, and take responsibility for harm. And there is room for all in this space as we come together.

Shoulder to Shoulder is brought to you by Kevin Castanheiro and Joel Fortier in partnership with Unpacked Podcast.

LINKS
-Brian Nietzel Website
-Making Things Right Podcast
-Brian's Resources (books, podcasts, white papers)
-Follow Brian 

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound

This week on Unpacked we are chatting with guest Brad Lewis, Registered Psychologist with Inner Solutions in Calgary.  In this enlightening episode, we are unlocking the mysteries of EMDR Therapy - a transformative approach to healing trauma and unlocking personal growth.  We chat with Brad to demystify the concept of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Discover how this innovative approach helps individuals process painful memories and navigate the path to emotional well-being. Explore with us the science behind EMDR therapy and how it taps into our brain's natural healing powers.  Learn how this compassionate modality empowers individuals to reclaim their lives and embrace a future filled with hope. Our deep dive into EMDR therapy goes beyond its mechanics. We explore how this approach enables individuals to break free from emotional barriers, enhance self-awareness, and experience personal growth like never before.

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

LINKS
-Inner Solutions Therapy
-Brad Lewis Linked In 
-Exploring and approaching self-harm with guest Ashely Vogelaar, Registered Provisional Psychologist

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound

This week on Unpacked we continue to chat with guests Erika Dewald (she/her), Raven Huery (she/they), Elizabeth Larabie (she/her), and Hailey Beynon (she/her) from the University of Lethbridge. In this round table discussion, we take Unpacked on the road to listen to the stories of university students and hear how they discovered who they are. They share their coming out stories what was most supportive, what she wished more people know about the LGTBQ+ community and give hope and advice for young people who are discovering their sexuality but more importantly they share who they were made to be.

This is just the beginning of the series and we are looking forward to sharing the Shoulder-to-Shoulder series with you. Love has a bigger table, there is a seat for you here with us. 

The producers and co-creators of the Unpacked Podcast present a special series 10-part series Shoulder to Shoulder. Shoulder to Shoulder is co-hosted by  Evan Dewald, Tara Linsley and Kevin Castanherio unpacking the relationship between the church and the LGTBQ+ community with ex-pastors, inclusive churches, thought leaders, and LGBTQ+ members. Episodes drop weekly on Tuesdays.

The goal is not to change your mind, but we are here to challenge that we can disagree and still love. We can disagree and include. We can disagree, stand up for the marginalized, and take responsibility for harm. And there is room for all in this space as we come together.

Shoulder to Shoulder is brought to you by Kevin Castanheiro and Joel Fortier in partnership with Unpacked Podcast.

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound

This week on Unpacked we are chatting with guest Denise Withers, Change Leadership Coach & Consultant. We chat with Denise about her life as a journalist and documentarian turned leadership coach using storytelling to do good.  She shares on what lessons she learned from behind the camera of storytelling and caring for herself. Denise gives tips on the indicators for a good story, and how organizations can learn to tell the human element of a story to help leaders and those around them do better work. And we chat about the number one question organizations need to answer for their audience. Denise believes it is the ability to recognize problems in an organization is the ability to recognize the stories. Denise helps leaders imagine a new story and coaches teams to grow impact.

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

LINKS
-Denise Withers Website
-Denise's Podcast
-Online journal: https://qwest.denisewithers.com/
-Denise's Books
-Follow on Linkedin
-On Writing By Stephen King Book

Support the show

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound