HOPE FOR THE AGORA

Agora Network Ministries
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Monthly

Hope for the Agora is a podcast hosting conversations about the stigma of mental health in the church. Agora Network Ministries seeks to bring hope and healing to those suffering with their mental wellness through honest discussions and resources that educate and equip individuals and churches toward mental flourishing as well as create an environment where those struggling find Christ-like support. Find out more at www.agoranetworkministries.com

  1. Aug 7

    S7 E8 Rewiring the Mind: Neuroplasticity, Faith, and the Renewal of the Brain

    Allen hosts an episode of "Hope for the Agora" exploring the connection between faith, mental health, and neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to change. He discussed how repeated thoughts and experiences form neural pathways, and how trauma can shape these patterns, referencing works by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk and Dr. Carolyn Leaf. Allen explained that while old pathways exist, new, healthier ones can be formed through deliberate practice and therapy, such as EMDR. He drew parallels between neuroscience and biblical teachings on transformation, citing scriptures that emphasize renewing the mind. Allen outlined practical steps for rewiring the mind, including identifying lies, comparing them with scripture, engaging the body, and inviting the Holy Spirit into the process. He concluded by affirming that change is possible through God's design and the work of the Holy Spirit.https://hopefortheagora.comhttps://agoranetworkministries.comKey References:Scientific- van der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma.- Hebb, D. O. (1949). The Organization of Behavior.- Doidge, N. (2007). The Brain That Changes Itself.- Kolb, B., & Gibb, R. (2014). Brain plasticity and behaviour in the developing brain.- Merzenich, M. (2013). Soft-Wired.Christian / Neuroscience- Leaf, C. (2013). Switch On Your Brain.- Leaf, C. (2021). Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess.Scriptures:Romans 12:2Philippians 4:82 Corinthians 10:5Ephesians 4:22–24John 8:31–32Galatians 5:22–23Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV; often translated differently in modern versions)Isaiah 26:3Colossians 3:1–17Psalm 1:1–3

  2. Jul 3

    S7 EP7 Men's Mental Health Crisis

    This was an episode of "Hope for the Agora," a podcast focused on mental health and the church, featuring Allan Gallant, founder of Agora Network Ministries, discussing men's mental health with host Allen. Alan shared how his own mental health crisis after suffering a stroke in 2017 led him to establish Agora Network Ministries to help churches understand and support mental health issues. They discussed how men struggle with expressing emotions due to cultural expectations that "real men don't cry" and the pressure to appear strong, leading many to suffer in silence with issues ranging from family relationships to financial struggles and secret addictions. The conversation covered how mental health affects spiritual well-being, with Allan emphasizing that Jesus understands human struggles and provides comfort to those in pain. They concluded by encouraging men to seek safe friendships and community, noting that Jesus offers companionship and healing to those who struggle with their mental health. https://agoranetworkministries.com https://hopefortheagora.com

  3. Jun 15

    S7 EP6 Understanding Grief and Loss

    Understanding and working through grief and loss can be complex. Allen talks with Dr. David Sherbino on this complex topic. Dr. Sherbino has served at Tyndale Seminary for decades.He has taught pastoral ministry, spirituality, and grief care.He coordinates graduate programs in Spiritual Formation...And helps lead work connected to grief, loss, and pastoral care through Tyndale. He has spent years helping people navigate suffering...And helping ministry leaders care well for hurting people.Links:https://www.tyndale.ca/faculty/david-sherbinoHope For The Agora Podcast: https://hopefortheagora.comAgora Network Ministries: https://agoranetworkministries.com

  4. May 2

    S7 EP5 Adult ADHD: Deficit or Super Power?

    This podcast episode featured a conversation between Allen and Laura Bruno, a psychotherapist who recently received an ADHD diagnosis as an adult after 20 years in the mental health field. Laura shared her journey of discovery, including key symptoms like always being late, racing thoughts, perfectionism, and misophonia, which led to her therapist's revealing statement that she was "not neurotypical." She discussed how medication (Vyvanse) and therapy significantly improved her quality of life, allowing her to experience calmness in simple moments like rinsing berries. Laura emphasized viewing ADHD as a strength rather than a deficit, describing how her unique brain wiring enhances her ability to connect with clients and provides intuitive insights. She shared practical strategies including using Trello for organization, creating daily "fire lists" of priority tasks, and adopting a curiosity-based approach rather than judgment when discovering new aspects about herself. The conversation highlighted how late-in-life ADHD diagnoses can provide clarity and language for experiences that were previously misunderstood, and how faith can play a role in reframing neurodivergence as part of God's unique design for each person.https://www.laurabrunopsychotherapy.comHope For The Agora: https://hopefortheagora.comAgora Network Ministries: https://agoranetworkministries.comMore about ADHD in adults:Medline Article: https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/adhd-across-the-lifespan-what-it-looks-like-in-adultsADHD as a Super Power:https://www.endeavorotc.com/blog/adhd-as-a-superpower-building-on-your-strengths/

  5. Apr 3

    S7 EP4 Knowing Your Identity: Guest Lorie Hartshorn

    Allen and Lorie focus in on Lorie's personal journey, the opportunities she was blessed with and the teaching she now does encouraging women (and men) in growing in their identity with Christ. Lorie Hartshorn is a Canadian Christian author, speaker, and former television host best known for her work with women navigating faith, identity, and real-life struggles. Her book Found is very focused on discovering your identity in Christ. She hosted A Better Way on Crossroads/YES TV, which focused on stories of transformation, hope, and practical faith. Lorie also hosts her own podcast called, The FOUND Podcast

  6. Mar 6

    S7 EP Healing What's Within -- Interview with Chuck DeGroat

    Allen speaks with Chuck about the story behind his new book, Healing What's Within: Coming Home to Yourself -- and to God -- When You're Wounded, Weary and Wandering. Chuck shares the inner turmoil that led him to eventually write the book.His insight and understanding of the deepest needs in our lives for healing and understanding is rooted in the healing power of drawing close to God in our darkest moments to find hope in our emotional, mental and physical healing journey.Chuck DeGroat is a professor at Western Theological Seminary. Professor of Counseling and Christian Spirituality and Founding Executive Director of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at Western Theological Seminary Holland MI. He is also a faculty member for the Soul Care Institute.https://www.chuckdegroat.net/Healing What's Within on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0688j1UTYou can leave your questions or comments below or contacthopefortheagora@gmail.com agoranetworkministries.com

  7. Feb 6

    S7 EP2 Alzheimers Journey_The Longest Goodbye with Shelly Calcagno

    Allen talks with Shelly Calcagno about her and her family's journey through her mother's Alzheimer's. Shelly shares why she wrote the book The Longest Goodbye and how it can bring hope to those on the same journey.The Longest Goodbye by Shelly Calcagno -- on Amazon.ca shellycalcagno.comHer podcast is called A Space for Grace

  8. Jan 9

    S7 EP 1 Navigating Dementia

    Allen interviews Glenn Taylor, a pastor and psychologist with 60 years of counseling experience, about his book "Navigating Dementia." Taylor shares his background in pastoral counseling and psychology, noting that he has worked with Christians, particularly pastors and missionaries, in multiple countries. The discussion focuses on Taylor's recent book, which provides insights into understanding and navigating dementia, drawing from his extensive experience in counseling and psychology. https://GlennCTaylor.ca Book: Navigating Dementia

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About

Hope for the Agora is a podcast hosting conversations about the stigma of mental health in the church. Agora Network Ministries seeks to bring hope and healing to those suffering with their mental wellness through honest discussions and resources that educate and equip individuals and churches toward mental flourishing as well as create an environment where those struggling find Christ-like support. Find out more at www.agoranetworkministries.com

Information

  • Creator
    Agora Network Ministries
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    67
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Agora Network Ministries
  • Show Website
    HOPE FOR THE AGORA