• E178 | Michael John Cusick Part 2 | Embracing Sacred Attachment
    Dec 2 2025

    The Journey to Wholeness with Michael John Cusick - Part 2

    In this episode of the Face to Face Podcast, we continue our insightful conversation with Michael John Cusick. We are excited to invite you to join our Level 1 and Level 2 Immanuel Approach training sessions starting in December and January.

    Michael delves into various topics, including spiritual disciplines, mysticism, and the importance of understanding our inherent brokenness through five Ws: wretchedness, weakness, woundedness, warfare, and wiring. He emphasizes the need to reframe our perceptions of spiritual performance and the profound impact of recognizing God's constant presence.

    The episode ends with information on how to support the podcast and more resources for deeper connection and lasting freedom.

    00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

    00:40 Listener Feedback and Apology

    02:37 Immanuel Approach Training Details

    04:53 Introduction to Michael Cusick's Interview

    05:17 Experiencing God in Everyday Life

    14:20 Understanding Human Brokenness

    20:54 The Impact of Personal Limitations

    21:30 Embracing Vulnerabilities

    22:12 The Power of Weakness

    24:08 Understanding Woundedness

    25:15 The Reality of Spiritual Warfare

    26:53 The Role of Our Nervous System

    28:20 Reevaluating Spiritual Performance

    30:28 Discovering a New Way

    35:43 The Holiness Heresy

    39:49 Final Thoughts and Reflections

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    44 mins
  • E177 | Michael John Cusick, Part 1 | Authenticity: The Path to Wholeness
    Nov 18 2025

    E177 | Michael John Cusick | Authenticity: The Path to Wholeness

    Welcome to Episode 177 of the Face to Face Podcast! Today we discuss their Immanuel Approach course levels and introduce their special guest, Michael John Cusick. Cusick, an author, podcaster, and therapist, shares his remarkable story of overcoming early-life trauma. The conversation delves into themes of vulnerability, the importance of embodied spirituality, and doing personal work for healing. Practical insights and valuable advice on experiencing God's love and navigating trauma are key highlights. 00:00 Introduction to the Face to Face Podcast 00:28 Upcoming Courses and Announcements 01:52 Introducing Michael John Cusick 02:39 Michael's Personal Journey and Professional Work 04:40 The Power of Vulnerability and Humility 08:05 Restoring the Soul: Intensive Counseling Ministry 09:54 Challenges and Growth in Personal Relationships 16:41 The Importance of Embodied Spirituality 38:51 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes

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    40 mins
  • E176 | Chuck DeGroat | Navigating the Journey of Healing, Vulnerability and Growth
    Nov 4 2025
    Today we sit down and have a compelling conversation with Chuck DeGroat, a licensed therapist, spiritual director, and author of six books including 'Leaving Egypt'. Chuck shares his journey of emotional and spiritual transformation, the significance of vulnerability, and practical exercises for achieving a deeper sense of safety and connection. Special topics include insights on the Immanuel Approach, Understanding Trauma courses, and the challenge of maintaining genuine vulnerability within leadership roles. Don't miss this insightful episode filled with practical steps for lasting freedom and meaningful relationships. 00:45 Exciting Announcements and Upcoming Courses 01:57 Introducing Our Guest: Chuck DeGroat 03:38 Chuck DeGroat's Background and Family 06:22 Discussing Chuck's Books and Writing Journey 07:56 The Journey of Healing and Self-Reflection 13:11 Understanding Trauma and Inner Healing 16:33 Challenges of Leadership and Vulnerability 19:41 Narcissism and the Path to Transformation 27:38 Sympathetic Storm: A Personal Journey 28:41 Character Formation and Personal Growth 29:24 The Slow Process of Bearing Fruit 30:42 Navigating Midlife Crises 32:01 Embracing Vulnerability and Self-Compassion 33:56 Befriending Our Inner Parts 47:52 Embodied Practices for Healing 51:09 Resources and Final Thoughts
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    53 mins
  • E175 | Chris Green | Bridging Theology and Life: A Conversation with Chris Green Part 2
    Oct 14 2025

    In Episode 175 we share part two of our enlightening discussion with Bishop Chris Green. This episode covers significant topics such as understanding trauma, the role of suffering in life, and the differences between tenderness and vulnerability. Chris provides profound insights into how one's view of God affects their emotional responses and emphasizes the importance of leaning into our humanity and finite nature. The episode also underscores the importance of embracing one's unique way of experiencing God, whether as a 'sea' or a 'cup,' and finding peace within that framework.

    Additionally, we highlight the Understanding Trauma course available at Immanuelinstitute.com.

    00:00 Introduction to the Face-to-Face Podcast

    00:33 Episode 175: Part Two with Bishop Chris Green

    01:00 Understanding Trauma Course Announcement

    01:53 Diving Back into the Conversation with Chris Green

    02:00 Theology and Tenderness: A Deep Dive

    11:02 The Role of Suffering in the Christian Life

    18:37 The Illusion of Control and Embracing Weakness

    26:05 Healing, Isolation, and Theological Anchoring

    32:47 Final Thoughts and Benediction

    38:58 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Content

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    40 mins
  • E174 | Chris Green | Bridging Theology and Life: A Conversation with Chris Green Part 1
    Sep 30 2025

    Welcome to episode 174 of the Face to Face Podcast, hosted by Melinda Wilson and Cathy Little.

    We are excited to share with you an in-depth conversation with theologian and professor Chris Green, discussing the interplay between theology and everyday life. Chris Green shares his journey into theology, influenced by scholars like Stanley Hauerwas and Robert Jensen. Our discussion shifts to the role of theology in daily life and the importance of aligning head knowledge with heart experience. Chris also delves into his latest book, 'All Life Comes From Tenderness,' exploring the necessity of sensitivity and tenderness for a fulfilling faith and life. The episode concludes with a teaser for part two and appreciation for the listeners. Tune in for an enriching dialogue on living with authenticity and understanding through theology.

    0:03 - Introduction and Welcome

    0:54 - Announcements and Updates

    3:02 - Introducing Chris Green

    3:59 - Chris Green's Journey into Theology

    10:25 - The Role of Theology in Daily Life

    14:47 - Constructive and Public Theology

    24:47 - The Importance of Tenderness

    51:15 - Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

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    33 mins
  • E173 | Dr. Baxter Kruger | Faith and Identity: Unveiling the Divine Within - Part 2
    Sep 16 2025

    In this episode of the Face to Face Podcast, we continue our insightful discussion with Dr. Baxter Kruger. We explore the significance of union with Jesus, practical ways it manifests in daily life, and how to recognize Jesus' presence in everyday actions. Our conversation also highlights upcoming events and courses from the Immanuel Institute that delve deeper into cultivating a closer relationship with Jesus. Dr. Kruger shares profound stories and joyful revelations, emphasizing the importance of embracing one's inherent connection with Jesus and viewing life through the lens of this union.

    00:00 Introduction to the Face to Face Podcast

    00:28 Upcoming Events and Announcements

    02:35 Introduction to Dr. Baxter Kruger

    02:45 Understanding Union with Jesus

    04:07 Practical Examples of Union

    05:04 Jesus' Presence in Daily Life

    07:53 The Role of Faith and Delusion

    13:57 The True Gospel and Identity

    14:22 Jesus' Teachings and Miracles

    18:20 The Simplicity of Walking with Jesus

    23:03 Final Thoughts and Homework

    24:11 Understanding Darkness and Light

    24:37 Baby Steps and Love

    25:07 Creativity and Divine Gifts

    25:37 The Journey of Awakening

    27:21 Union and Non-Duality

    29:32 Hearing God's Voice

    31:02 Facing Pain and Finding Jesus

    36:03 The Power of the Gospel

    42:13 Resources and Recommendations

    46:04 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

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    50 mins
  • E172 | Dr. Baxter Kruger | Faith and Identity: Unveiling the Divine Within - Part 1
    Sep 2 2025

    Join us for an intriguing conversation with theologian, Dr. Baxter Kruger as he delves into theological discussions about the nature of God's love, the significance of the Trinity, and the purpose of creation. He challenges traditional Western Christian doctrines, advocating for a more beautiful gospel centered on love and unity with God. The episode encourages listeners to re-examine their beliefs and embrace a more profound relationship with the Divine

    00:00 - 02:14: Introduction and current travels 02:15 - 06:33: Upcoming Immanuel Approach training details 06:34 - 07:40: Background on guest Baxter Kruger 07:41 - 12:00: Kruger's theological discussion on the Trinity and nature of God 12:01 - 16:30: Significance of God's love and purpose of creation 16:31 - 23:49: Jesus' actions and divine submission during the crucifixion 23:50 - 35:12: Interpretation of biblical passages and deeper theological insights 35:13 - 44:30: Faith, repentance, and knowing God intimately 44:31 - 52:45: Challenges to traditional Western Christian doctrines 52:46 - 1:09:10: Experiencing and describing God's love in everyday life 1:09:11 - 1:20:00: Final reflections and invitation to re-listen

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    45 mins
  • E171 | Dr. Margaret Nagib | Healing from the Inside Out: Trauma, Faith, and the Nervous System
    Aug 19 2025

    Join us for a powerful episode of the Face to Face Podcast as we sit down with Dr. Margaret Nagib, a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience, to explore the integration of faith, psychology, and nervous system healing. Discover how trauma responses shape our lives, why nervous system regulation is foundational for emotional and spiritual health, and practical steps for moving from survival to wholeness.

    Timestamps:

    00:00 – Welcome & Introduction
    00:29 – Broadcasting from Lake Tahoe & Upcoming Courses
    02:38 – Introducing Dr. Margaret Nagib
    03:22 – Dr. Margaret's Background: Integrating Faith & Psychology
    05:42 – The Evolution of Christian Psychology & Inner Healing
    09:35 – Mind, Body, Spirit Integration Explained
    13:22 – The Role of the Nervous System in Healing
    18:23 – Why Nervous System Work is Trending
    21:14 – Understanding Trauma Responses: Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawn
    24:11 – Real-Life Examples: People-Pleasing & Fawn Response
    27:00 – How to Recognize and Shift Out of Trauma Responses
    31:00 – Practical Tools for Regulation & Completing the Stress Cycle
    35:00 – Recognizing Long-Term Patterns & Building Capacity
    39:00 – The Foundation of Nervous System Work

    Key Topics:

    • The integration of faith and psychology in healing
    • How trauma responses (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) show up in daily life
    • The importance of nervous system regulation for lasting change
    • Practical tools for recognizing and shifting out of survival states
    • Dr. Margaret's personal journey and resources

    Connect with Dr. Margaret Nagib:
    Instagram: @margaretnagib
    Website: thedunamisproject.org

    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a five-star review and visit facetofacenetwork.com for more resources!

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    45 mins