16 episodes

Here at Sunburnt Souls,  we dive into the messiness of faith and mental health. I'm Dave Quak, a pastor who's been at it for over two decades, and guess what? I'm dealing with my own mental health stuff too. Yep, fully alive in Christ, and fully tormented mentally. But you know what? It's for people like us that this podcast exists.We're here to keep it real and encourage those who are navigating the ups and downs of following Jesus, while wrestling with mental illness. Join me and some friends as we share our unfiltered experiences of what it's like to live at this complicated intersection. Our goal? Building a spiritual community of like-minded legends who want to live for Christ, flaws and all. No judgment here, just a bunch of broken people cheering each other on toward restoration. So, if you're looking for hope, a bit of a laugh, and maybe some unexpected wisdom, you're in the right place. Welcome to "Sunburnt Souls," where faith meets the messiness of real life.

Sunburnt Souls Dave Quak

    • Religion & Spirituality
    • 5.0 • 20 Ratings

Here at Sunburnt Souls,  we dive into the messiness of faith and mental health. I'm Dave Quak, a pastor who's been at it for over two decades, and guess what? I'm dealing with my own mental health stuff too. Yep, fully alive in Christ, and fully tormented mentally. But you know what? It's for people like us that this podcast exists.We're here to keep it real and encourage those who are navigating the ups and downs of following Jesus, while wrestling with mental illness. Join me and some friends as we share our unfiltered experiences of what it's like to live at this complicated intersection. Our goal? Building a spiritual community of like-minded legends who want to live for Christ, flaws and all. No judgment here, just a bunch of broken people cheering each other on toward restoration. So, if you're looking for hope, a bit of a laugh, and maybe some unexpected wisdom, you're in the right place. Welcome to "Sunburnt Souls," where faith meets the messiness of real life.

    Mission Uncovered: Navigating Mental Health with Stu Cameron

    Mission Uncovered: Navigating Mental Health with Stu Cameron

    In today's episode, we're honored to host Stu Cameron, the CEO and Superintendent of  Wesley Mission. From humble beginnings devouring treats at Morris’s Bakery in Naracoorte with his highschool sweetheart Sue,  to stewarding this vast organization, Stu's journey is a testament to the goodness and kindness of God. 

    We explore the core of Wesley Mission's work, spanning over six decades of unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality mental health care. Together, we consider the historical and contemporary landscapes of mental health support, exploring the enduring stigma and the pivotal role faith communities can play in fostering understanding and support. 


    Lastly, we take a theological exploration to frame our understanding of mental illness while upholding Wesley Mission's Christian ethos in a diverse world. Join us as we uncover the insights and tangible pathways for both seeking and offering support within Wesley mission.

    Connect with Stu Cameron

    Wesly Mission 


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    • 36 min
    Depression, Anorexia, Dreaming Brave and Changing Lives- Dr Wai Jia Tam

    Depression, Anorexia, Dreaming Brave and Changing Lives- Dr Wai Jia Tam

    Welcome to another episode of Sunburnt Souls! Today, we're privileged to explore the remarkable journey of Wai Jia Tam, a true beacon of inspiration. We begin by acknowledging her impactful endeavours, such as the publication of her first book, Kitesong, at the tender age of 18, which raised over $100,000 for a children’s home in Nepal. But as we'll soon discover, life's journey isn't always smooth sailing. At just 19, while navigating medical school, Wai Jia found herself living by faith in Jesus,  despite the shadows of mental illness in the forms of depression and anorexia.
     
    We delve into her experience of walking the tightrope between God's leading and provision, and the darkness of mental illness. What did depression look like for her? And how did anorexia manifest in her life? Despite these challenges... Wai Jia bravely shares whether she still struggles with these conditions today.
     
    In the midst of turmoil, Wai Jia found inspiration and growth in her relationship with God. She shares how faith became a cornerstone during these trying times and shaped her perspective on life. She is pioneering a new podcast called "Dream Brave" and will be speaking in Australia in the following weeks. 

    Links:

    Get Your Copy of  'Dream Brave: A Dare to Live By Faith When You Feel Too Small' by Wait Jia Tam

    Kitesong

    Connect with Wai Jia Tam on Instagram


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    • 44 min
    An Amazing Author with ADHD and Dyslexia- W.R Gingell

    An Amazing Author with ADHD and Dyslexia- W.R Gingell

    In this super fun episode of Sunburnt Souls, we join author and all-round legend, WR Gingell.  
     
    Wendee shares of her writing journey and recent adventures, from unexpected sources of inspiration to navigating the wild terrain of ADHD and dyslexia.  As an accomplished author of almost 30 books, Wendee knows what it’s like to wrestle at the intersection of faith and mental health.
     
    We are blessed to hear anecdotes and testimony about how faith intertwines with her mental well-being, and what that looks like on a daily basis.  As a woman of God that writes amazing fantasy fiction, God is using her to represent him well as she creates and crafts words of wisdom, adventure and beauty.
     
    On a personal note, I think Wendee has a beautiful heart and a kind soul.  She is a generous blessing to all those that come into her world, and has personally bless our family in many ways… (As you will hear in the podcast :) 
    Buy W.R Gingell's Books here... 

    https://www.amazon.com.au/stores/W.-R.-Gingell/author/B00HMM6VX4?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true 

    WR's FB... https://www.facebook.com/wrgingell/







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    • 1 hr 3 min
    Navigating the Wilderness with Jesus- Bronwen Healy

    Navigating the Wilderness with Jesus- Bronwen Healy

    Today, we are privileged to have Bronwen with us, a brilliant woman of God whose journey epitomizes the grace and kindness of Jesus through life's trials and triumphs.
     

    Bronwen's diverse roles as an author, motivational speaker, charity director, social enterprise founder, mum, and professional counsellor are all blessings from Jesus. Despite her ministry success, Bronwen found herself in a wilderness phase for the past few years, marked by pain and shame, until Jesus guided her through.

    Navigating the Wilderness with Jesus: Bronwen shares her experience of being in the wilderness, grappling with uncertainty and solitude. Through her faith, she found peace knowing that Jesus was with her every step of the way, carrying her through the darkest moments.

    Embracing the Second Bloom with Jesus: Transitioning from the wilderness phase to a period of renewal and growth was made possible through Jesus' grace. Bronwen recognized that the wilderness was a necessary precursor to her second bloom, a season she is now moving into with both excitement and dubious anticipation.
     

    Lessons Learned and Words of Encouragement Through Jesus: Bronwen reflects on the invaluable lessons Jesus taught her throughout her journey. She shares words of encouragement, reminding listeners that Jesus is always present, ready to deliver and guide them through their own wilderness experiences.

     
    Looking Ahead with Jesus:  Bronwen's aspirations and goals for the future are deeply rooted in her faith in Jesus. She trusts in His divine plan and remains open to the possibilities that lie ahead, knowing that Jesus will continue to watch over her every step of the way.

    Connect with Bronwen on Instagram


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    • 49 min
    Misuse of Spiritual Leadership- Karl Faase

    Misuse of Spiritual Leadership- Karl Faase

    In this raw and real conversation, host Dave Quak engages in an eye-opening interview with Karl Faase, delving deeply into the unsettling realities of spiritual abuse within Christian faith organizations. 
     
    How do amazing organisations like Mars Hill, Willow Creek, Hillsong, and RZIM deal with the fallout of leadership failure?
     
    As we navigate through the complex landscape of faith and authority, we explore the critical need for change in these spheres. From instances of abuse of power to ethical breaches, we look at the shadows that have cast a pall over the spiritual community. 
     
    Drawing from Karl’s extensive experiences and insights, we dissect the root causes, societal implications, and paths towards healing and accountability. Join us on Sunburnt Souls as we confront the uncomfortable truths and advocate for transformative reforms in spiritual leadership worldwide.


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    • 53 min
    Jon Owen- Wayside Chapel

    Jon Owen- Wayside Chapel

    Welcome back to Sunburnt Souls, where we chat about the intersection between faith and mental health. Today, we're getting into the journey of Jon Owen, a super likeable guy that follows Jesus wherever he leads. 


    Jon ditched the whole 'promising career' gig in Computer Science to do something truly extraordinary. He and his wife Lisa opened their home in Mount Druitt, Sydney to those battling addiction, homelessness, and the fallout from life's tough knocks.
     
    Their place became a real refuge for over a dozen souls, thanks to Jon and Lisa's big hearts. They didn't just give these folks a roof over their heads; they gave them a sense of belonging.
     
    Fast forward to today, and Jon's the Pastor and CEO at Sydney's Wayside Chapel in Kings Cross. He's still at it, spreading love and hope wherever he goes. Jon Owen's all about showing that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a huge difference.
     
    His story's a reminder that we all have the power to change lives for the better. Stick around for more inspiring tales on Sunburnt Souls, where we celebrate the everyday heroes among us.
     
    Thanks for listening…
     
    Check out the work of Wayside Chapel here
    https://www.waysidechapel.org.au/ 
     
    Also, check out Jon Owen on “Conversations” with Richard Fidler 
    https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/conversations/jon-owen-social-justice-wayside-chapel-mt-druitt-safe-house/102959608
     


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    • 51 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
20 Ratings

20 Ratings

Aussie Robbo ,

Keep up the great work!

I’m really enjoying the variety of guests and topics, everyone’s transparency and vulnerability, and the willingness to be ok with the messiness at the intersection of faith and mental health… Keep up the great work! 🤗

Suielou ,

Refreshingly real

I've found every episode hugely encouraging. Feels very authentic.

LeisMarie123 ,

Refreshing!

Such a needed topic to get out into the world! Love the refreshing, authenticity of this podcast! Brilliant host!

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