Clergy Wellbeing Down Under

Valerie Ling
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Welcome to the official first podcast of the Centre for Effective Serving, a research and consulting organisation focused on vocational wellbeing, burnout prevention, and training.  In Season 1 we are focussing on Clergy Wellbeing Down Under.  In Season 2 we looked at how ministry kids locally and on the mission field are doing.In today's fast-paced and demanding world, support for those who serve by leadership is more crucial than ever. However, the pressures and challenges that come with leadership roles can often lead to burnout and exhaustion, both mentally and physically. At the Centre for Effective Serving, we understand the significance of addressing these issues head-on to create a healthier and more productive leadership landscape.In each episode  we delve into the latest research and resources developed by our team of experts, who are dedicated to enhancing leadership wellbeing and fostering a supportive environment for leaders to thrive. Our podcast provides valuable insights, evidence-based strategies, and practical tips to help leaders and their families maintain their well-being, improve their resilience, and prevent burnout.Join us as we bring on renowned experts in the fields of psychology, mental health, leadership, and well-being to share their knowledge and experiences. Through candid interviews and engaging discussions, we explore various topics, including stress management techniques, emotional intelligence, work-life integration, team building, and much more.Stay up-to-date with the latest trends in leadership well-being and burnout prevention by subscribing today. 

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  1. Episode 1: Ministry Kids' Wellbeing Survey 2024 Results

    EPISODE 1

    Episode 1: Ministry Kids' Wellbeing Survey 2024 Results

    In this kick-off episode, we dive into the heart of the Ministry Kids Wellbeing Survey to explore the main findings and what they reveal about the lives of children in ministry families. We unpack key themes that emerged from the survey, shedding light on the unique experiences and challenges ministry children face.  To get a copy of the full report head here Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    12 min
  2. Episode 2: What Stood Out to the Psychologists Behind the Ministry Kids' Survey

    EPISODE 2

    Episode 2: What Stood Out to the Psychologists Behind the Ministry Kids' Survey

    In this episode, we sit down with the psychologists who designed and analyzed the Ministry Kids Wellbeing Survey to uncover the key insights and findings that stood out to them. From surprising trends to eye-opening revelations, they share what the kids themselves told us, and what we discovered about the unique challenges and experiences faced by ministry kids. Whether you're a parent, part of a faith community who wants to support ministry kids, or simply curious about the well-being of children growing up in ministry families, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the data, along with practical takeaways to support these kids in thriving under the public gaze. To download the full survey report head over here Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    34 min
  3. Episode 3: The Hidden Challenges and Strengths of Third Culture Kids (TCKs) with Tanya Crossman

    EPISODE 3

    Episode 3: The Hidden Challenges and Strengths of Third Culture Kids (TCKs) with Tanya Crossman

    Discover the hidden challenges and strengths of Third Culture Kids (TCKs), who grow up outside of their passport country, and how their unique experiences shapes their lives in unexpected ways. In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Tanya Crossman, a leading expert on third culture kids (TCKs), who shares her own transformative experiences and groundbreaking research. From her insightful books "Thongs or Flip-Flops" and "Misunderstood" to her pivotal role at TCK Training, Tanya brings a wealth of knowledge and personal stories that will resonate deeply with anyone interested in the complexities of growing up across cultures. Our conversation uncovers the long-term psychological impacts of being a TCK, spotlighting how parental mental health and resource limitations can strain the parent-child bond. We delve into the prolonged identity issues many TCKs face, often recognizing emotional gaps only in their 30s and 40s. Amidst these challenges, there is hope and resilience. Explore the intricate dynamics of TCKs' emotional worlds, from early feelings of uncertainty to the unique ways they navigate friendships in constantly changing environments. We emphasize the critical importance of positive childhood experiences and community support, drawing from our own parenting insights to offer practical tools for fostering emotional and physical safety. This episode is a treasure trove of valuable advice for TCK families, underscoring the importance of resilience and integration to help children thrive despite the obstacles they face. For more on Tanya's work and the wealth of research, resources and upcoming training head over here. For resources and training options in parenting TCKs head over here To download our full survey report head over here Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    34 min
  4. Episode 4: Supporting Ministry Families with Neurodivergent Children with Tanya Crossman

    EPISODE 4

    Episode 4: Supporting Ministry Families with Neurodivergent Children with Tanya Crossman

    How can you make church environments inclusive for neurodivergent children, especially those in ministry families serving abroad? Tanya Crossman brings part 2 to her interview with me and shares her lived, and expert insights on this critical topic. Creating a welcoming space for all children in church is more than just a nicety—it's a necessity. Listen as we explore the importance of recognizing each child's individuality, from addressing them by name to understanding their unique interests. We also tackle the formidable challenges faced by ministry families in cross-cultural contexts, particularly in regions with limited support systems. Finally, we delve into the complexities of seeking diagnosis and support for children in international settings. Tanya emphasizes the importance of advanced planning and consistent health assessments for families abroad. We discuss best practices for tracking child development, advocating for access to counselling and training, and the significance of supporting parents. With hope, direction, and gratitude, we aim to foster a supportive environment for families and the gospel. Listen in for a conversation that promises to equip you with the tools and insights needed to support neurodivergent children in ministry families. Resources for ND kids/families: Link to the upcoming workshop we talked about Spark Life Psychology Senia For a copy of our survey results head here  Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    26 min
  5. Episode 5: Growing Up Between Continents and Churches with Marsden Sampson

    EPISODE 5

    Episode 5: Growing Up Between Continents and Churches with Marsden Sampson

    Growing up in the unique world of ministry life can shapes a child's perspective in unique ways. Marsden Sampson knows this journey intimately, being both a pastor's kid and a missionary kid. He recounts his story of traversing cultural landscapes from Australia to Kenya and back, and how these transitions shaped his understanding of belonging, loneliness, and identity. Marsden's candid reflections illuminate the less-discussed emotional landscape faced by children in ministry settings. To download our full results head here Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    33 min
  6. Episode 6: Navigating Parenting in Ministry Part 1 with Collett Smart

    EPISODE 6

    Episode 6: Navigating Parenting in Ministry Part 1 with Collett Smart

    In this conversation, I speak with Collett Smart - psychologist, author and speaker in child and adoelscent mental health. Collett hosts the Raising Teens Podcast and is the author of "They'll be okay. 15 Conversations To Help Your Child Through troubled Times " We delve into the complexities of adolescent mental health, particularly within the context of ministry families. We discuss the importance of understanding the adolescent brain, the impact of technology on mental health, and how parents can connect with their children. The conversation looks at ways we can share empathy, effective communication, and parenting support for the challenges faced by ministry kids. Collett shares insights on how parents can support their children through their mental health struggles while navigating their faith journey. The discussion also touches on the importance of creating space for individual needs and the dynamics of family decisions in ministry. To download our full results head here Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    27 min
  7. Episode 7: Navigating Parenting in Ministry Part 2 with Collett Smart

    EPISODE 7

    Episode 7: Navigating Parenting in Ministry Part 2 with Collett Smart

    In this conversation, Collett Smart discuss the challenges and nuances of parenting in ministry, particularly focusing on the unique struggles faced by ministry kids. We explore themes of faith, identity, the importance of open communication, and the need for space and privacy for children. The discussion looks at the significance of relationships, understanding, and grace in navigating the complexities of raising children in a ministry context. Get the full report of our survey findings here Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    29 min
  8. The Pastor's Kid Part 1 with Barnabas Piper

    EPISODE 8

    The Pastor's Kid Part 1 with Barnabas Piper

    Join me, Valerie Ling, as I sit down with Barnabas Piper, author, pastor and son of theologian John Piper, for a candid and helpful conversation about being a pastor's kid. Barnabas shares his personal story of navigating life as a pastor's kid, where the blend of public scrutiny and private faith creates a unique tension of identity and independence.  Get the full report of our survey findings here "Pastors' kids are often burdened by others' expectations, but there is a wonderful solution, both at home and in the church: grace. In this revised, refreshed version of Barnabas Piper's best-known book, the author candidly shares his own experiences as son of pastor and bestselling author John Piper, offering a challenge to our churches and to the families at their very heart: how to care for pastors' kids and allow them to find their own faith and identity. Foreword by John Piper."  Quoted from The Wandering Bookseller where you can get the copy of Barnabas Piper's book - The Pastor's Kid: What it's like and how to help. Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    28 min
  9. The Pastor's Kid Part 2 with Barnabas Piper

    EPISODE 9

    The Pastor's Kid Part 2 with Barnabas Piper

    Join me, Valerie Ling, for part 2, as I sit down with Barnabas Piper, author, pastor and son of theologian John Piper, for a candid and helpful conversation about being a pastor's kid. Barnabas shares his personal story of navigating life as a pastor's kid, where the blend of public scrutiny and private faith creates a unique tension of identity and independence. Get the full report of our survey findings here "Pastors' kids are often burdened by others' expectations, but there is a wonderful solution, both at home and in the church: grace. In this revised, refreshed version of Barnabas Piper's best-known book, the author candidly shares his own experiences as son of pastor and bestselling author John Piper, offering a challenge to our churches and to the families at their very heart: how to care for pastors' kids and allow them to find their own faith and identity. Foreword by John Piper."  Quoted from The Wandering Bookseller where you can get the copy of Barnabas Piper's book - The Pastor's Kid: What it's like and how to help. Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    33 min
  10. Ministry Siblings: Anna Cox and Michael Jensen

    EPISODE 10

    Ministry Siblings: Anna Cox and Michael Jensen

    Anna Cox who serves with Reach Australia and Michael Jensen (podcast co-host of With All Due Respect) are siblings who share their perspective growing up within the evangelical Christian Anglican community in Sydney.  While Anna and Michael shared the same upbringing, they reflect on how differing personalities can shape one’s response to the ministry family experience. They also share what it was like to grow up surrounded by theological students, their fondest memories of faith communities, and some of the formative experiences growing up in the "fishbowl". Get the full report of our survey findings here Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    42 min
  11. Season 2 Finale with Colin Buchanan! This one is for the kids!

    EPISODE 11

    Season 2 Finale with Colin Buchanan! This one is for the kids!

    Colin Buchanan ministers directly to our ministry kids addressing 7 of the top themes that came up from our survey.  Honestly - this one is best seen on the video version because - well - Colin is in full view with all of the expressions, animations, and actions that is truly Colin.  The link for the video version can be found here. It's a bit of a long episode - skip to the sections if that makes it easier: 4:06 Playing the Google AutoComplete Challenge with Colin 12:02 Playing Vague Seven Questions and a Tree! 13:37 My friends call me weird and think what my parents do is weird 19:14 Being busy as a ministry family there's a lot on 22:20 I feel like I have to behave better than other kids 26:46 I miss out on fun things and hanging out with friends becasue I have to go to church stuff 30:43 What can I do when I don't feel like I belong anywhere? 35:11 I get lonely sometimes - do you Colin? 39:09 What can I pray when things gets hard? 42:20 A question about ...a tree.... Send us a text Podcast Disclaimer: Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution. This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!

    46 min
See All Season 2 (11)

About

Welcome to the official first podcast of the Centre for Effective Serving, a research and consulting organisation focused on vocational wellbeing, burnout prevention, and training.  In Season 1 we are focussing on Clergy Wellbeing Down Under.  In Season 2 we looked at how ministry kids locally and on the mission field are doing.In today's fast-paced and demanding world, support for those who serve by leadership is more crucial than ever. However, the pressures and challenges that come with leadership roles can often lead to burnout and exhaustion, both mentally and physically. At the Centre for Effective Serving, we understand the significance of addressing these issues head-on to create a healthier and more productive leadership landscape.In each episode  we delve into the latest research and resources developed by our team of experts, who are dedicated to enhancing leadership wellbeing and fostering a supportive environment for leaders to thrive. Our podcast provides valuable insights, evidence-based strategies, and practical tips to help leaders and their families maintain their well-being, improve their resilience, and prevent burnout.Join us as we bring on renowned experts in the fields of psychology, mental health, leadership, and well-being to share their knowledge and experiences. Through candid interviews and engaging discussions, we explore various topics, including stress management techniques, emotional intelligence, work-life integration, team building, and much more.Stay up-to-date with the latest trends in leadership well-being and burnout prevention by subscribing today. 

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