Fun Therapy artwork

Fun Therapy

57 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 4 years ago - ★★★★★ - 1.8K ratings

Fun Therapy with Mike Foster dives into the beautifully messy parts of our not-so-perfect lives. Episodes feature a candid "therapy" session with a special guest and Mike's unique perspective on building emotional fitness in our lives. With the kindness of Mr. Rogers and the no-nonsense of a Navy SEAL, his unique style reveals the truth and beauty residing in all of us. With a lush musical score by Sleeping At Last, consider this your guide to turn your setbacks into super powers. Learn more at: MikeFoster.tv

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Episodes

5 Truths My Dog Taught Me About Grief

May 05, 2020 22:27 - 31 minutes - 29.3 MB

Losing a pet is never easy. In this deeply candid conversation, Mike talks about the recent loss of his beloved dog. He shares about the deep grief he fell into and some of the universal truths he learned about death and dying. This episode is perfect for anyone who has lost a pet or anyone who is working through the grief process.  MikeFoster.tv

Never Say These Words In A Crisis

April 09, 2020 03:16 - 26 minutes - 24.5 MB

In this episode of Fun Therapy, Mike shares about the language of healing and choosing the right words in a crisis. The fact is that our "words create worlds" which means we must be extra careful of what we are saying to ourselves and to others. Mike also gives practical statements that you can use that will create "honest hope" and avoid shallow "happy talk."  Rescue Academy E-course Free Brain Detox Download

How To Be Excessively Kind To Yourself

March 30, 2020 22:14 - 28 minutes - 26.5 MB

In this special COVID-19 episode of Fun Therapy, Mike shares three ways to respond to losing control and embracing the rumble of deep vulnerability. He talks about how to be excessively gentle with yourself, the two-steps to kindness and how to make sure you're being responsible for the energy you bring into a room. This episode also includes special guest artist JJ Heller singing an unplugged version of her song, "You Already Know."  JJ Heller Website Free Brain Detox Download ...

Surviving COVID-19 And Building Markers Of Hope

March 23, 2020 23:47 - 25 minutes - 23.5 MB

In this special episode of Fun Therapy, Mike shares how to survive a storm by welcoming "what is" and creating practical symbols of hope for your future. If you're feeling stressed and overwhelmed by the events of today, this simple conversation help you to "sing the harmony" in your new song.    www.MikeFoster.tv

Juli Wilson: Life After The Loss Of Jarrid

February 25, 2020 01:00 - 33 minutes - 31.1 MB

In September of 2019, Pastor Jarrid Wilson died by suicide. He was a husband, father and a prominent advocate for mental health. In this episode of Fun Therapy, Mike sits down with his widow, Juli Wilson. They discuss what grief looks like and the process of learning to breathe again in the midst of this devastating loss. Juli shares with brave vulnerability about the struggle and the hope, dealing with critics and the one thing she would want Jarrid to know today. Please be advised...

Chris Heuertz: Enneagram, Identity And The Wound

February 19, 2020 23:57 - 42 minutes - 39 MB

Enneagram expert Chris Heuertz joins Mike for a powerful conversation around how the Enneagram reveals the essence of who we are and how our wound will shape us. They talk about how our enneagram types are simply the reflection of us trying to cope with the pain of being human. Mike and Chris discuss "type-snipers" and how the feeling of belonging must begin with us.  This episode is perfect for anyone wanting to explore the deeper meaning of the Enneagram and how it can help you un...

Conflict, Fight Styles And Building A Love That Lasts

February 11, 2020 18:11 - 32 minutes - 30 MB

In this episode of Fun Therapy, Mike discusses how to fight like a pro and avoid the common struggles couples face in their communication. He shares practical tips on how to create connection and the one question you should never ask your partner. Mike discusses the difference between feedback and criticism and will help you identify if you use a “Godzilla Fight Style” or a “Turtle Fight Style.“ Whether you’re in a relationship or not, this episode will give you a powerful blueprint...

Marc Pimsler: Writing A New Story After Trauma

February 05, 2020 11:30 - 43 minutes - 39.4 MB

In this episode of Fun Therapy, Mike sits down with experiential specialist and therapist Marc Pimsler. Marc opens up about the abuse that he suffered in a mental hospital and how his incredible work is shaped by the pain from his past. We discuss the neurobiology of our thoughts and how our brain fills in false conclusions about trauma. Marc gives an incredible explanation of shame and a simple technique to challenge our critical thoughts.  EPISODE LINKS: Marc's Website and Resou...

Bob Goff: How To Make Space For A Dream

January 29, 2020 20:47 - 38 minutes - 35.7 MB

In this episode of Fun Therapy, Mike sits down with Bob Goff to discuss how to prioritize your dreams and the key to make a successful transition. Recorded live at Bob's new retreat center called "The Oaks," Bob shares how to deal with difficult people and a unique way that he approaches criticism.   Bob Goff Website And Workshop The Oaks: Bob's New Retreat Center Free Brain Detox Guide MikeFoster.tv  

Amber Rae: Defining A New Relationship With Our Critical Voice

January 13, 2020 11:00 - 41 minutes - 38.2 MB

In this episode of Fun Therapy, Mike talks with author Amber Rae ("Choose Wonder Over Worry") about the relationships we have with our thoughts and emotions. She shares about the limiting scripts she believed and how she chose to ignore her unprocessed grief. Through a creative practice of naming her critical voices, she is finding an inspiring pathway to healing and wholeness. Amber's Book: "Choose Wonder Over Worry" Amber's Website Guided Meditation Bundle Mike's Website

Four Ways To Build A Healthy Habit That Lasts

January 08, 2020 21:30 - 31 minutes - 29.3 MB

In this episode of Fun Therapy, Mike shares the key to creating lasting change in your life...and it's easier than you think. He shares how he utilized 4 simple principles to build a powerful new habit in 2019 and how the results even surprised him. He discusses the problem with "exotic solutions" and how create your own motivational post-it notes. Mike Foster Website Free Brain Detox Download

Phil Wickham

December 05, 2019 18:18 - 45 minutes - 41.7 MB

In this special Christmas episode, Mike sits down with recording artist Phil Wickham. Phil shares about a risky but rewarding conversation he had with his brother recently and how important it is to say the unsaid. Mike also convinces Phil to play a couple unplugged songs from his new album, "Phil Wickham Christmas."  Phil Wickham Website Strongest Workshop Brain Detox Free Download

How To Declutter Your Brain

November 20, 2019 03:31 - 31 minutes - 29.3 MB

In this episode, Mike shares 3 simple ways to declutter your overpacked brain. It's time to go into the attic of your mind and discover strategies to clear out the junk that doesn't belong there. Mike shares about his recent brain detox and how he learned to limit the inputs, engage the body and release unhelpful thoughts. These simple practices will help reduce stress, release anxiety and avoid overthinking everything.    Mike's Website Strongest Workshop

Summer Wright: When We Can't Forgive Ourselves

November 13, 2019 01:20 - 33 minutes - 30.6 MB

In this episode, Mike sits down with Summer to talk about her inability to forgive herself for an extramarital affair. They discuss how the voice of shame keeps her small and protected even though it is crushing her spirit. This episode is for anyone who struggles with forgiving themselves or find themselves sabotaging their own comeback.   FREE Brain Detox Download Strongest Workshop Registration MikeFoster.tv If you haven’t already, please rate and review the Fun Therapy podc...

Kayla Stoecklein: Finding Strength In Unbearable Grief

November 06, 2019 15:59 - 47 minutes - 43.4 MB

In this episode of Fun Therapy, Mike sits down with Kayla Stoecklein to process the loss of her husband to suicide. In this riveting and courageous conversation, Kayla opens up about what life really looks like in the midst of unbearable grief.   Strongest Workshop God's Got This Website Free "Brain Detox" Download   If you haven’t already, please rate and review us. It’s an important way to help new listeners discover the show! And be sure to say hello on Instagram and Twitte...

Guided Meditation: Discover Your Hidden Needs

October 30, 2019 11:30 - 13 minutes - 12.6 MB

In this episode, Mike leads you on a guided meditation to become aware of any unmet needs in your life right now.  www.MikeFoster.tv Brain Detox: Free Download  

Season 4: Trailer

October 23, 2019 12:00 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MB

Mike shares about what to expect in this next season of the Fun Therapy podcast. He talks about upcoming guests and the helpful topics that will be covered in Season 4. The new seasons launches November 6th.

Guided Meditation: Letting Go

June 26, 2019 11:30 - 13 minutes - 12.6 MB

In this special edition of Fun Therapy, Mike shares a guided meditation to help you identify heavy things that you have carried too long. If you're feeling weary and burned out by life, these few minutes will help you release relationships, failures and hurt you were never meant to carry. Music by Sleeping At Last EPISODE LINKS: Strongest Workshop Website Music by Sleeping At Last Mike Foster Website If you haven’t already, please review us on iTunes here. It’s an important wa...

Guided Meditation: Self-Acceptance

June 19, 2019 11:30 - 13 minutes - 11.9 MB

In this special episode of Fun Therapy, Mike has created a guided meditation to help you relax and center your life in self acceptance. Many will find this type of reflection helpful to identify the things below the surface that need love and compassion. This episode is a perfect tool to help you release stress, anxiety and tension from your day. EPISODE LINKS: Strongest Workshop Registration Music by Sleeping At Last Mike's Website

Lauren Scruggs Kennedy

May 01, 2019 11:30 - 33 minutes - 372 MB

In December of 2011, Lauren Scruggs Kennedy (Fashion journalist and wellness advocate) was involved in a tragic accident in which she walked into an airplane's spinning propeller, losing her left eye and severing her left hand. In this episode she joins Mike to discuss the difficulties of building friendships, how to communicate needs and the importance of feeling safe in our stories. If you haven’t already, please review us on iTunes here. It’s an important way to help new listene...

How To Turn Your Thoughts And Feelings Into Allies

April 24, 2019 11:00 - 40 minutes

Alison Cook is the co-author of "Boundaries For Your Soul: How to Turn Your Overwhelming Thoughts and Feelings into Your Greatest Allies." Mike was so inspired by her book that he invited her to share about some of the key findings from her research. They discuss the importance of all emotions, depression and how to make friends with the vulnerable parts of your soul. EPISODE LINKS Boundaries For Your Soul Book Alison Cook Website Strongest Workshop Rescue Academy Training ...

Unlikely Ways To Maximize Your Calling

April 10, 2019 11:00 - 32 minutes

In this episode, Mike shares the keys to maximizing your purpose, passions and life's calling. Too often we chase the big picture instead of enjoying the sacred moments of the windy road to getting there. He shares two fundamental ideas to experience the life you want and why to never diminish, deny or downplay your passions for the sake of others approval. **EPISODE LINKS: ** Strongest Workshop: May 16-17, 2019 Mike Foster On Instagram Sleeping At Last Music

Mack And Meredith Brock

April 03, 2019 11:30 - 47 minutes - 64.9 MB

Our first ever "couples" Fun Therapy features worship leader Mack Brock and his wife Meredith. They share about their current struggles and the importance of healing their own family of origin brokenness. Mike also invites them into a powerful exercise where they affirm each other's value and importance. As a special bonus, Mack plays an exclusive unplugged performance from his album "Greater Things." . **EPISODE LINKS: ** Mack's Website Proverbs 31 Website . Strongest Event: ...

Malcom McLoughlin

March 27, 2019 11:30 - 39 minutes - 36.2 MB

Most people have distorted and incorrect beliefs about addiction. Many are confused about how to best help those who are struggling. We have been taught faulty ideas that actually add injury to the addict. In this episode of Fun Therapy, author and ultra-runner Malcolm McLoughlin pulls back the curtain on his gut-wrenching battle and how the hooks of alcohol brought him to the edge of suicide. This raw and powerful conversation will change what you think about addiction and give you...

How To Take Ownership Of Your Story

March 14, 2019 11:30 - 31 minutes - 28.9 MB

Too often we feel defeated by our past. We feel defined by our history. In this episode of Fun Therapy, Mike shares how to take ownership of your story and the four common responses we have to life. He unpacks the critical questions we should be asking about our past and how we can avoid being defined by our worst moments. EPISODE LINKS: Strongest Workshop: May 16-17, 2019 Mike's Website

Melissa Radke

March 06, 2019 13:36 - 48 minutes - 44.7 MB

Have you ever struggled with your weight? Have you felt judged by others? Do you find yourself at war with your body and unhappy with the way you look? In this powerful episode, author and reality TV star Melissa Radke boldly opens up about her struggle with her weight and body image. Mike and Melissa unpack the pain of people’s unkind words and how how to respond to the fear of putting yourself out there. Mike also shares about his new Fun Therapy 2-day event called “Strongest.” ...

Jeremy Cowart

February 20, 2019 13:00 - 41 minutes - 38.4 MB

Jeremy Cowart is a world renown photographer and artist. He is the creator of Help Portrait and is currently in the midst of building one of his biggest dreams yet, The Purpose Hotel. In this episode Mike and Jeremy talk about the challenges of adoption, facing his own health challenges and living in the "not yet" of a dream. EPISODE LINKS: Jeremy Cowart Website Jeremy's New Book "I'm Possible"

Five Ways To Fall Asleep Naturally

February 13, 2019 03:45 - 45 minutes - 42.2 MB

An estimated 50-70 million US adults have issues with insomnia and wakefulness. On this episode of Fun Therapy Mike shares 5 ways to fall asleep naturally and how to improve your quality of rest. From establishing an electronic sunset to never using a King size pillow, Mike unpacks fascinating and myth-busting research to a good night of sleep. Tired of waking up tired? Having trouble staying asleep? Feeling groggy at work? With music by Sleeping At Last and featuring the song "Lul...

Blake Mycoskie

February 06, 2019 03:16 - 39 minutes - 36 MB

Blake Mycoskie is an entrepreneur, philanthropist and the founder of TOMS Shoes. In this episode, Blake shares about his passion for helping to end gun violence in America. He shares about the importance of listening to your heart as a leader and boldly taking on issues that matter to you. Mike also asks him about the raw emotion he showed on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and what triggered that powerful moment. Frances Moore Lappe once said, "Every choice we make can be a cele...

Kait Warman

January 30, 2019 13:00 - 45 minutes - 41.5 MB

Kait Warman is a well-known dating expert, speaker, relationship coach, and host of the popular Heart of Dating Podcast. In this episode, Mike and Kait talk about the challenges of dating and how to recover from past disappointments. She shares about the feelings of not being enough and the pressure to perform in order to be chosen by a man. She also shares candidly about a past abusive relationship that she was caught in and how she finally escaped. This is a powerful and intense c...

Scott Harrison

January 23, 2019 13:00 - 47 minutes - 43.7 MB

Scott Harrison is the founder of Charity: Water and the author of NY Times Best-seller, "Thirst: A Story of Redemption, Compassion, and a Mission to Bring Clean Water to the World." Scott sits down with Mike to talk about the death of his mother this year and how to find optimism in the midst of suffering. He shares about how he uniquely processed his grief and the pressures of balancing family and the mission to bring clean water to over 1 billion people. Show Links: Charity: Wat...

Carlos Whittaker

January 16, 2019 13:00 - 53 minutes - 49 MB

On the Season Premiere of Fun Therapy, Mike and author Carlos Whittaker explore a limiting belief that keeps him from fully pursuing his calling. He talks about how a lie was planted inside of him many years ago still controls how he sees himself today. This episode is for anyone who is looking to break their own limiting belief and wanting to stop tolerating the lie of not-enoughness. About Carlos Whittaker: Carlos Whittaker is a People’s Choice Award winner, a former recording a...

When Twinkle Lights Reveal Our Sadness

December 12, 2018 06:30 - 52 minutes - 48.3 MB

In this special Christmas episode, Mike shares how to manage the emotional and family dynamics of the holidays. He talks about why this is both a joyful and melancholy season and gives practical tips for emotional health. Mike is also joined by Sleeping At Last as they talk about holiday traditions and his new Christmas song, "When We're Together." Sleeping at Last Christmas Album on Noise Trade. Rescue Academy Workshop ABOUT MIKE FOSTER Mike Foster is an author, speaker and exe...

Season 3 Trailer

November 20, 2018 18:30 - 22 minutes - 21 MB

Hey Friends. This is Fun Therapy. I’m Mike Foster and together on this podcast we dive into the messy, not-so-perfect parts of our stories, and we do it with a smile. This is a place of love, and warm hugs, and the beautiful possibilities that awaits each and every one of us. We talk about the hard things, the mysteries of life and loss, we share about the stuff from our stories that may not have an answer just yet. but most importantly around here, we discover that we are not alone...

Everyone Belongs in Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

July 06, 2018 15:12 - 29 minutes - 26.9 MB

In the Season 2 finale of Fun Therapy, Mike dives into the teachings of Fred Rogers (Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood) and why love must be the foundation for our lives. He also shares the four ways we deal with pain and a destructive belief that almost everyone carries inside of them. ABOUT MIKE FOSTER Mike Foster is an author, speaker and executive counselor helping people turn setbacks into super powers. His work has been featured on FOX, ABC and in the New York Times. He lives in S...

Jon Acuff

June 28, 2018 17:01 - 52 minutes - 48.1 MB

In this session of Fun Therapy, New York Times best-selling author Jon Acuff joins Mike to discuss his current challenge of giving himself permission to try new things. Jon is the author of six books including his most recent Wall Street Journal No. 1 best-seller, Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done. In this episode, they talk about how to build the courage to be misunderstood and how taking the risk of being “average” is part of the journey toward finding our true joy. ABOUT MI...

21. Jedidiah Jenkins

June 21, 2018 15:39 - 46 minutes - 42.6 MB

Jedidiah Jenkins is a professional adventurer and the author of To Shake the Sleeping Self: A 14,000 Mile Bike Trip & One Man’s Quest to Live a Life With No Regrets. He is a storyteller who encourages people to choose their life well and writes about everything from the cartels of Mexico to the megachurches of the U.S. to the Amazon rainforest in Bolivia. In this episode, he sits down with Mike to discuss writing, how to match cruelty with kindness and coming to terms with his sexua...

20. Body Beautiful and Being a Five

June 14, 2018 14:52 - 50 minutes - 46.9 MB

This week, Mike shares the important role the physical body plays in our identity and how it is often overlooked during our healing process. While addressing his own trauma of being locked in his body from early childhood, he shares a fascinating and unbelievable experience. Mike is joined by Ryan O’Neal from Sleeping at Last to discuss the new song “Five” from his Enneagram series. Sleeping At Last ABOUT MIKE FOSTER Mike Foster is an author, speaker and executive counselor helpi...

19. Heather Avis

June 07, 2018 13:19 - 42 minutes - 39.5 MB

Heather Avis is the author of The Lucky Few and an advocate for families and children with Down syndrome. In this episode she and Mike process the heavy costs that come along with a sacred calling and how she is feeling exhausted and overwhelmed in the battle. ABOUT MIKE FOSTER Mike Foster is an author, speaker and executive counselor helping people turn setbacks into super powers. His work has been featured on FOX, ABC and in the New York Times. He lives in San Diego, CA with his...

18. Toby Slough

May 31, 2018 16:32 - 47 minutes - 43.9 MB

Approximately 40 million Americans struggle with an anxiety disorder and about 2 percent of these individuals are prone to panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions where you feel completely out of control and often feel like you’re dying. Toby Slough is a megachurch pastor who struggles with serious panic attacks and anxiety. In this episode of Fun Therapy, Toby and Mike process the impact his anxiety disorder has had...

17. Margaret Feinberg

May 24, 2018 21:41 - 41 minutes - 38.6 MB

In this week’s episode of Fun Therapy, Mike is joined by acclaimed writer, speaker and Bible teacher Margaret Feinberg. The two talk about how to deal with major changes in life, what going through the grief process is like and how to deal with daily pain. ABOUT MIKE FOSTER Mike Foster is an author, speaker and executive counselor helping people turn setbacks into super powers. His work has been featured on FOX, ABC and in the New York Times. He lives in San Diego, CA with his wif...

16. Karrie Garcia

May 17, 2018 12:30 - 35 minutes - 33.3 MB

Karrie Garcia from the Freedom Movement sits down with Mike to process the voice inside that tells her to live small and not to dream too big. She works through the implications that her mother’s suicide has had on her life and the struggle of feeling unwanted. ABOUT MIKE FOSTER Mike Foster is an author, speaker and executive counselor helping people turn setbacks into super powers. His work has been featured on FOX, ABC and in the New York Times. He lives in San Diego, CA with hi...

15. Jamie Tworkowski

May 10, 2018 11:59 - 37 minutes - 34.6 MB

Jamie Tworkowski is the founder of To Write Love On Her Arms. In this episode, he processes with Mike the struggle to discover his new voice, the pain of heartbreak and the desire to find true love.

14. Eryn Eddy

May 03, 2018 13:31 - 38 minutes - 35.1 MB

Eryn Eddy, the founder of So Worth Loving, shares about the devastating impact of her recent divorce. In this episode, she processes with Mike the shame she felt and what she needed most from her friends.    

13. Rebekah Lyons

April 26, 2018 13:16 - 31 minutes - 28.6 MB

In the Season 2 premiere of Fun Therapy, author Rebekah Lyons joins Mike to discuss what it’s like to be torn between her calling and her family.      

12. Season 2 Trailer

March 29, 2018 21:08 - 5 minutes - 5.5 MB

Season two of Fun Therapy with Mike Foster is coming April 23! Each episode dives into the horribly messy parts of our stories (with a smile). Each episode features a candid “therapy” session with a key leader, influencer or artist. No talking points. No shameless self-promotion. Only beautiful imperfection on display as we discover tactics to turn our setbacks into superpowers.

11. Finding Hope And Breadsticks

December 06, 2017 20:08 - 37 minutes - 34.7 MB

In this episode, Mike shares some final thoughts on the themes, ideas and stories shared throughout season one. He discusses the keys to creating connection and tips to get people to open up. He also places a call to Ryan O’Neal from Sleeping At Last to ask a big favor. ABOUT MIKE FOSTER Mike Foster is an author, speaker and executive counselor helping people turn setbacks into super powers. His work has been featured on FOX, ABC and in the New York Times. He lives in San Diego, C...

10. Lauren Feindel

November 29, 2017 22:55 - 54 minutes - 49.9 MB

In February, Lauren was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. She was just 31 and had three young kids. Her form of cancer was incredibly aggressive and took her on a journey of pain, questions and discovering what truly mattered in life. In this session, Lauren and Mike talk about how cancer changed her and how she had to fight for joy in the midst of deep physical and emotional suffering.

Annie F. Downs

November 22, 2017 16:00 - 55 minutes - 51.2 MB

Annie F. Downs is a best-selling author and nationally known speaker based in Nashville, Tennessee. In this session of Fun Therapy, Mike talks to her about the struggles of being single, feelings of rejection and what it means to truly belong. Annie's Website Mike's Website Mike's Instagram ABOUT MIKE FOSTER Mike Foster is an author, speaker and executive counselor helping people turn setbacks into super powers. His work has been featured on FOX, ABC and in the New York Times. ...

8. Miles Adcox

November 15, 2017 22:48 - 47 minutes - 43.2 MB

Miles Adcox is the CEO of Onsite, a worldwide leader in helping people live emotionally healthy lives. In this episode, Mike and Miles discuss the power of experiential therapy, the misconceptions of trauma and why giving advice is rarely helpful.

Guests

Amber Rae
1 Episode
Blake Mycoskie
1 Episode
Bob Goff
1 Episode
Jon Acuff
1 Episode
Margaret Feinberg
1 Episode
Rebekah Lyons
1 Episode
Scott Harrison
1 Episode