Being Human with Steve Cuss

S4E18 - Sam Allberry

Sam Allberry first came to my attention when he spoke at the Church of England General Synod about his experience as a clergy who is same sex attracted. In that brief speech, I discovered a nuanced, caring, thoughtful man whose work is profoundly personal and profoundly impacted by the Gospel. On this episode we have a LGBTQ conversation and Sam also lets us in on his inner world and how the Gospel brings freedom in his life. A poignant episode on so many levels.

S4E17 - Wes Beavis

Dr. Wes Beavis, has served for decades as a pastor in the United States and Australia. He is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in helping pastors navigate the ministry journey and guiding church leaders through crisis situations. He has clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating the symptoms of ministry burnout. Wes earned his doctorate from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology majoring in Applied Clinical Psychology. His Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Ther...

S4E16 - Christine Caine

Christine Caine is a powerhouse of a preacher and author, a fierce advocate of people trapped in sex slavery and an empower of women. Christine is the founder of A21 a global organization eradicating human trafficking through awareness, intervention, and aftercare. She also leads Propel Women. Coming from a background of profound pain and abuse, Christine is an inspiring example of the power of the Gospel not only to heal, but to deploy as a healer. Some of our most powerful Gospel leaders...

S4E15 - Jenny Brown

We launch our Season of Aussies! With the wonderful Dr. Jenny Brown, PhD. Jenny is the founder of The Family Systems Institute in Sydney, Australia and has worked as a social worker and family therapist since the early 1980s. She is well regarded in Australia for her training in Murray Bowen’s Family Systems Theory. Jenny is currently developing parent coaching programs and systems training for those in Family Businesses; and church and pastoral work. Jenny’s research looks at parents’ expe...

S4E14 Chuck Degroat

Chuck Degroat has for me, quickly become not just a trusted voice, but an essential go-to voice for church leadership. He is a pastor, therapist and scholar, but also: unpretentious, curious, and articulate. His work is forged from a deep place. His latest effort When Narcissism Comes to Church is a must read. Chuck encourages us all to examine ourselves, but also builds a path of hope for narcissism. If you're looking for an excellent step into contemplative prayer, Chuck has a fantastic v...

S4E13 Dave Runyon

Dave Runyon, co-author of Art Of Neighboring serves in a unique role in this unique time. Dave facilitates collaborations between pastors, government leaders and business people to serve cities and people on the margins. Dave's City Unite network has made impacts in areas of childhood hunger, foster care, affordable housing and more. Dave is currently serving between the Governor of his state and hundreds of pastors and brings a unique perspective on the impact of COVID19. Dave created a dow...

S4E12 - Matt Rawlins

Matt Rawlins spent 20 years working in missions in Asia and the Pacific, where he submerged himself in different cultures and worked with people from a variety of diverse backgrounds. In his work, Matt became fascinated by people’s reactions to tension and uncertainty. His questions around how leaders show up and be fully present in the midst of tension led Matt to more deeply study change. He finished his PhD in leadership and communication from the University of Wales in 2001. Since then,...

S4E11 - Todd Hunter

The Rt. Rev. Dr. Todd Hunter is the founding bishop of The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others and founder and leader of The Telos Collective. He is past President of Alpha USA, former National Director for the Association of Vineyard Churches, retired founding pastor of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Costa Mesa, CA. Todd has written a number of books including The Accidental Anglican, Our Favorite Sins, and Our Character at Work.   Todd holds a Doctor of Ministry degree and serves...

S4E10 - Doug & Julie Crozier

Doug and Julie Crozier are founders of The Solomon Foundation, a ministry that uses investments to help churches establish and grow to the next step. Doug is CEO and he is a particularly gifted visionary, organizational builder and developer of staff culture. Our church is a partner and beneficiary of TSF and I have seen up close, Doug’s values imbued into every team member of TSF. I was excited to talk to both Doug and Julie together. While Doug is the official and upfront leader, Julie is ...

S4E09 - 8 Concepts of Bowen Theory Pt. 2

Murray Bowen, founder of Family Systems Theory developed 8 concepts to guide and explain how we think and act. Understanding and putting into practice these 8 concepts can really revolutionize your relationship with people and with anxiety. This episode is part 2 of 2 as we cover the last 4 of the 8 concepts. Hosted by Steve Cuss and Brendan Reed. Links referenced in both episodes: How to make and lead a Genogram Video kit (Use PODCAST coupon code for discount) MLA Episode featuring Rich...

S4E08 8 Concepts of Bowen Theory, Pt 1

Murray Bowen, founder of Family Systems Theory developed 8 concepts to guide and explain how we think and act. Understanding and putting into practice these 8 concepts can really revolutionize your relationship with people and with anxiety. This episode is part 1 of 2 as we cover 4 of the 8 concepts. Hosted by Steve Cuss and Brendan Reed. Links referenced in both episodes: How to make and lead a Genogram Video kit (Use PODCAST coupon code for discount) MLA Episode featuring Rich Villodas...

S4E07 Dave Ferguson

My guest this week, Dave Ferguson is a pastor and an entrepreneurial genius. A lot of leaders have compelling vision, but what sets Dave apart is his ability to turn that vision into robust, healthy, reproducing organization. Dave is the co founder and lead pastor of Community Christian Church in Naperville, Illinois. He also built and leads the NewThing Network, a robust global church planting movement. Dave also built the Exponential Conference, equipping church planting leaders around the...

S4E06 Rich Villodas

My guest this week, Rich Villodas, leads us through a fantastic conversation on the power of genograms and differentiation and gives us concrete tools to help us navigate our emotional and anxious worlds. Rich shares profound thoughts that will help us engage deeper with our true self. One of my favorite interviews! Rich is the lead pastor of New Life Fellowship, a large, multiracial church with more than seventy-three countries represented in Elmhurst, Queens. His book The Deeply Formed Lif...

S4E05 Jeff Goins

Jeff Goins is the author of five books including the The Art of Work and Real Artists Don’t Starve. He helps creators and entrepreneurs with tools to get their work seen and established. As you’ll hear in this interview, Jeff has much hard fought wisdom for faith leaders who have a passion to make an impact with their work. This was a delightful interview.

S4E04 Darrin and Aimee Patrick

This week, Darrin and Aimee Patrick join me to discuss leadership pressure, coming back from the bottom, how to know when you're ready, the impact of one person's decision on another and all things leadership Anxiety. 

S4E03 Sean Palmer

Sean Palmer is a pastor, author and enneagram facilitator who currently serves at Ecclesia Church in Texas. His book Unarmed Empire is a must read for a young faith leader. Sean discussed his latest study - Enneagram and public speaking and of course he kindly endured my gauntlet.  Info and Tickets for 2 Day MLA Workshop

S4E02 Dr Mark D Roberts

Dr Mark D Roberts currently leads the Depree Center for Leadership. is one of those mentors from a distance I have appreciated for years. Pastor, Leader, Scholar, not necessarily in any order! Dr Roberts has a PhD in New Testament from Harvard University. I am always grateful for pastor/scholars - they are such a gift to the church. Dr Roberts brings tremendous wisdom and candor in this episode discussing leadership challenges. One of my favorites! Tickets for 2 Day MLA workshop here. 

S4E01 Gabe and Rebekah Lyons

Gabe and Rebekah are a powerhouse of innovation and insight. I LOVED sitting down with them to hear their thoughts. Gabe's book UnChristian was groundbreaking when it was released. He is also the founder of Q Ideas. Rebekah has also written multiple books including her latest outstanding work, Rhythms of Renewal Tickets for 2 Day MLA Workshop are here. 

S3E12 Robbie Seay

Robbie Seay is a worship leader, songwriter, touring professional musician, pastor and church consultant. A Renaissance man! I have been a fan of Robbie's craft for years - his songwriting, vocal and the tones he puts on his albums....I just love all of it.   Robbie brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to this interview. We cover a range of topics - making space for creativity, the cost of excellence, the theology of worship and of course, my gauntlet. Also, it bears mentioning, Robbie...

S3E11 Dr. JP Moreland

Dr. JP Moreland is most known as one of the world's pre eminent Christian philosophers and apologists. He has written countless books on the topic and has taught at Biola University for decades. Most recently, his focus has moved to the nature of anxiety, a topic deeply personal to him. I highly recommend his incredible book Finding Quiet. Not only is his own personal journey gripping, but he offers many concrete tools to help us get unstuck and free. I have loved and benefited from JP's wor...

S3E10: Life Giving List and Workload Scrub

Life Giving List Template   Workload Scrub Template   2020 Workshop Info    Two simple, game changing tools to help de escalate anxiety that anyone can use. Often on the show I interview a guest or sometimes teach a concept. This episode simply explains how to use a Life Giving List if you're running on empty or fumes and how to use a workload scrub to gain clarity on how much you are carrying, how long it is taking and how to begin to narrow workload and focus on what matters most.  

S3E09 Russell Moore

Dr Russell Moore is the President of the Southern Baptist Convention Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, a position he has held since 2013. He is also the author of many excellent books including Adopted For Life and his latest, The Storm Tossed Family.  Speaking of storms, it seems that Dr Moore has been navigating non stop storms in his role and his does it with tremendous poise, grace and thoughtfulness. I appreciate his posture and clarity, he is a necessary voice in these anxious ...

S3E08 Jack Holland

Jack Holland was the first to teach me "Second Order Change," a powerful tool to break stuck patterns in a family or team. He also discusses a technique from narrative therapy that helps him stay curious and in a rookie posture, not an expert posture. Here are some resources that can help with second order change.    Also, coming March 2020, a 2 day workshop to help you manage anxiety, yours and theirs. 

S3E07 Costi Hinn

Costi Hinn grew up the wealth and indulgence of the prosperity gospel, groomed for success by his father and famous uncle, Benny Hinn. Costi has a powerful story written most recently in God, Greed and the Prosperity Gospel. He shares candidly about his upbringing, but also about how God used doubt, love and kindness to help him turn from a life of wealth and indulgence to a life of true freedom in Christ. Costi is now Executive Pastor of Discipleship at Redeemer Bible Church in Gilbert, AZ....

S3E06 Tod Bolsinger

My guest Tod Bolsinger is Vice President and Chief of Leadership Formation and Associate Professor of Leadership Formation at Fuller Seminary and holds a M.Div and PhD from Fuller. He is author of numerous books, most famously Canoeing The Mountains an outstanding leadership book and, in my opinion, one of the best of all time! Also, coming in March 2020, the Managing Leadership Anxiety Workshop. Click for tickets and more details. 

S03E05 Second Order Change

Second Order Change is a powerful tool a leader can use to break stuck, recurring patterns in yourself, your relationships and your organization. I first learned it through two books: Change: Principles of Problem Formation and Problem Resolution and Brief Therapy with Intimidating Cases.    In this episode, Brendan Reed and Steve chat through what it is and share some examples of how it can work. 

S03E04 Trish Taylor

S3E06 Kadi Cole

Kadi Cole is a world class leadership consultant and developer. With a background in medical leadership, a master's in Human Resources and a recently published excellent book Developing Female Leaders, Kadi brings a ton of wisdom to the topic of men and women in leadership. Regardless of your theological point of view, Kadi has something to teach all of us on this episode. 

S3E05 Friedman's Fable 2

Another reading from Ed Friedman's wonderful book of fables. Today, "The Bridge" and Cinderella's Step Mother addressing a national association of Therapists.    For more, check out www.stevecusswords.com    

S3E04 Brenda Salter Mcneil

Dr Brenda Salter McNeil is an essential voice in today's church. She is a force of reconciliation, scholar, pastor, author. I am thrilled to be joined by her to discuss acute vs chronic anxiety, systemic and personal racial challenges, making mistakes in public and more.     

S3E03 Jorge Acevedo

Jorge is Lead Pastor of Grace Church, one of the largest Methodist churches in the country. He also has served numerous times on their commission 'On A Way Forward. OAWF is designed to help the Methodist movement clarify their approach and relationship to LGBTQ people while navigating significant personal and theological differences.    Jorge discusses that and other leadership lessons. 

S2E02 DJ Chuang

DJ Chuang joins me today to discuss minority and majority culture, the unique attributes of shame in different cultures, naive pastors, mental illness and more.  DJ is a gift to the Kingdom. He writes and speaks on these topics extensively and you can connect with him at his website above. Also, be sure to check out his fantastic podcast, Erasing Shame. 

S3E01 Drew Dyck

Season 3 kicks off with Drew Dyck, author of the fantastic book Your Future Self Will Thank You. In the book, Drew looks at brain science and the Bible to help us understand why we procrastinate, how will power works and how we can forge healthy habits.  Drew gives us great nuggets from the book and submits himself to my new improved season 3 gauntlet of anxiety questions.  Also, coming May 2020, a 2 day Managing Leadership Anxiety conference in Denver. Want to know more? Email steve@stev...

Steve's wife and kids join in the fun!

Our season finale. I invite my wife and 3 kids to come on and chat chronic vs acute anxiety, how each of us can tell when the other is anxious, places where we're never anxious and more! Teen and pre teen anxiety on the finale. After this, see you in September!

S02E20 Friedman's Fables

Steve discusses Ed Friedman and why he thinks Friedman's Fables is his best work. Steve also reads two fables from the book. 

S02E19 Kathy Escobar

Kathy is a fellow faith leader here in Broomfield - she is co founder and co pastor of “The Refuge” - a faith community right here in Broomfield.    But she’s probably best known as an author, speaker and blogger. Kathy wrote Down We Go and Faith Shift. She has helped countless people navigate the very common experience of doubt and disorientation in faith. She has a point of view and a way of speaking that the wider faith community needs to hear. 

S02E18 Max Lucado

Want more resources and some free downloadable tools and templates? Head over to Stevecusswords.com Today's guest Max Lucado literally needs no introduction. His recent book Anxious For Nothing is vintage Max - clear, compelling, helpful and grace-filled. While Max is famous for his word craft and message of grace, he is also an experienced faith leader with many decades under his belt. We spend most of the episode digging into leadership anxiety together. 

S02E17: Dr. Robert Creech

Dr Robert Creech is a professor and author who has spent decades helping faith leaders integrate Family Systems Theory into their work. His recent book Family Systems And Congregational Life is a creative and highly practical application of Bowen Theory for any faith leader, specifically pastoral leaders.  

S02E16: Father Greg Boyle

Fr Gregory Boyle of Homeboy Industries joins me to discuss his work with people coming out of gangs, human fear and leadership anxiety. Not surprisingly, Fr G drops all manner of gold in this episode. I caught him at home and unfortunately the audio quality is not great, but Fr G sure was. iHis most recent book, Barking to the Choir is outstanding.

S02E15: Brian Mavis

Brian is president of America's Kids Belong, a remarkable organization whose mission is to 'change who waits.' Instead of kids in foster care waiting for loving families to adopt them, AKB is working to have loving families waiting for kids. Brian's leadership journey is unique in a couple of facets:  - his passion for health and wellbeing for a productive leader - anxiety caused by massive success - his ability to share a compelling message in a world flooded with charitable options.  A...

S02E14: Book Release & Double Binds

Want to dig deeper into the book, then you want the video series that guides a group through the tools in the book. That and more here. For a 15% discount, use PODCAST in the coupon code during check out.    The book is out and you can buy it here or anywhere you get your books. (Note: Amazon link sends a portion of proceeds to my church.)    Interested in a Church Residency/Internship? Apply at Discovery here.  Meanwhile, we dig into double binds - how they are an internal AND relation...

S02E13: Dr. Wade Mullen

S02E12: Dr. Andrew Newberg

Dr Andrew Newberg is a Neurotheologian - a Neurologist who specializes in how faith affects the brain and how the brain affects faith. He is the author of many books including Words Can Change Your Brain, which he recommends for people of faith.   

S02E11: Shane Wood

Shane is a New Testament theologian who teaches at Ozark Christian College and is author of Between Two Trees, an exception book on life, pain and redemption that lies between the trees of Genesis and Revelation. Shane tackles that, his own healing, the challenge of technology on our anxiety and many other topics in this episode. 

S02E10: Richard Beck

Richard Beck is Professor and Department Chair of Psychology at Abilene Christian University, blogger extraordinaire at Experimental Theology and author of numerous fascinating books that you can find here. Seriously, just pick one that strikes you and read it. You'll be better for it.  We chatted all things leadership, the pressure millennials face and why Richard doesn't like being asked about getting away from it all. A super fun episode with a brilliant thinker. 

S02E09: Nate Pyle

Nate is pastor and also author of the brand new book More Than You Can Handle.   In this episode we cover early ministry mistakes, growing from self aware to truly transformed, when a leader shares her or his own struggles and when to wait, and our usual gauntlet of anxiety questions

S02E08: Mandy Smith

Mandy is the author of The Vulnerable Pastor and also Lead Pastor at University Christian Church. She is also a fellow Aussie!

S02E07: Q&A with Josh and Parker

Newer to Systems theory and diagnosing the source of your leadership anxiety? This episode is a Q&A with a youth ministry team who started listening to this podcast and came with some key questions.

S02E07: Q&A with Josh and Parker

Newer to Systems theory and diagnosing the source of your leadership anxiety? This episode is a Q&A with a youth ministry team who started listening to this podcast and came with some key questions.

S02E06: Isolationism and Exceptionalism