Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick

Michael John Cusick

Helping people become whole by cultivating deeper connection with God, self, and others. Visit www.restoringthesoul.com.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    Episode 365 - Ashley Opliger, "Cradled in Hope: Trusting Jesus Through Infant Loss"

    Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s episode, Michael sits down with Ashley Opliger, author of the new book Cradled in Hope: Trusting Jesus to Heal Your Heart as He Holds Your Baby in Heaven. This deeply moving conversation explores Ashley’s personal journey through the heartbreak of miscarriage and infant loss, and how her grief led to unexpected hope and purpose. Ashley shares the story of her daughter, Bridget Faith, whose brief life inspired not only her book but also the founding of Bridget’s Cradles—a ministry bringing comfort to thousands of families facing similar tragedy. Throughout the episode, Ashley and Michael discuss the realities of grieving with hope, the importance of lament and honest faith, and the ways Jesus meets us in our deepest darkness. You’ll hear practical wisdom for grieving parents, profound reflections on faith and suffering, and the incredible story behind a small handmade cradle that’s touched tens of thousands of lives. Whether you are navigating loss yourself or want to better understand how to support those who are, this conversation offers raw honesty, biblical hope, and a reminder that we are never alone in our pain. Support the show ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST: - Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS - Like us on Facebook - Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - Follow Michael on Twitter - Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

    42 min
  2. 8 SEPT

    Episode 364 - Drs. Bill & Kristi Gaultiere, "Deeply Loved: The Power of Empathy"

    Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s conversation, Michael sits down with Drs. Bill and Kristi Gaultiere—psychologists, spiritual directors, and founders of Soul Shepherding—to explore the transformative power of empathy in the Christian life. Together, they dive into the heart behind Bill and Kristi’s newest book, Deeply Loved: Receiving and Reflecting God’s Great Empathy for You, discussing why so many of us struggle to receive love from God and others, and how empathy connects deeply to healing, spiritual maturity, and healthy relationships. From personal stories of overcoming shame and abandonment wounds to confronting misconceptions around empathy in Christian circles, this episode offers practical wisdom and tangible spiritual practices for those longing to experience God’s love more fully. Whether you’re a leader, caregiver, or someone simply searching for greater connection and soul care, you’ll discover steps toward living more vulnerably, building stronger attachments, and living out the truth that you are deeply loved. Stick around for Kristi and Bill’s insights on soul care, their unique approach to spiritual direction, and ways you can get involved in their community. Support the show ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST: - Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS - Like us on Facebook - Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - Follow Michael on Twitter - Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

    40 min
  3. 25 AUG

    Episode 362 - Sam Jolman, "The Sex Talk You Never Got, Part 1"

    Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, our special guest is Sam Jolman, author of the book, "The Sex Talk You Never Got: Reclaiming the Heart of Masculine Sexuality." In this episode, Michael and Sam explore the genesis of Jolman's book and the pivotal discussions that underpin men's sexual health and well-being. Learn about the distinctive approach Jolman takes in his writing, offering prescriptive advice and a descriptive, story-rich exploration of masculinity and sexuality. Discover why Jolman believes that understanding male sexuality is crucial, especially in the wake of the Me Too movement, which has left many questioning the inherent goodness of male desire. Tune in as we discuss the necessity for open, ongoing conversations about sexuality, the concept of men as lovers, and the true needs behind sexual desires. We'll also touch on the impact of shame and the need for a more nurturing, informed approach to sexual education. Whether you're a man seeking a deeper understanding of your own sexuality or someone wanting to support the men in your life, this episode is packed with insights and compassion. Support the show ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST: - Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS - Like us on Facebook - Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - Follow Michael on Twitter - Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

    28 min
  4. 11 AUG

    Episode 360 - Dr. Janelle Hallman, "Mindfulness and the Presence of God, Part 2"

    Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." In today's podcast, Michael continues his conversation with Dr. Janelle Hallman, diving deep into the practice of mindfulness and its transformative power. In this episode, Janelle opens up about her struggle with feeling disconnected from her body and how mindfulness played a crucial role in her journey towards reconnection. Together, they explore the significance of paying attention to bodily sensations, how our bodies help us understand and process emotions, and the concept that "everything belongs." Listen to the first half of the conversation -> Episode 357 - Dr. Janelle Hallman, "Mindfulness and the Presence of God, Part 1" Michael and Janelle also discuss the integration of body, mind, and spirit, emphasizing the importance of being present and cultivating a relationship with God. Janelle guides listeners through a mindful breathing exercise, encouraging us to redirect our attention from mental chatter to the present moment. Discover how mindfulness supports spiritual growth and healing from trauma and brings a compassionate and nonjudgmental perspective into everyday life. Tune in and learn how setting your mind on the things above can lead to meaningful and practical changes that restore the soul. Support the show ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST: - Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS - Like us on Facebook - Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - Follow Michael on Twitter - Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

    31 min
  5. 4 AUG

    Episode 359 - Alan Kraft, "The Intimate God, Part 2"

    Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Joining Michael is Alan Kraft, who will delve into the spiritually nourishing practice of scripture meditation and its power to let the Holy Spirit speak directly to our hearts. In today's episode, titled "The Intimate God," Alan unravels his spiritual trifecta — stillness, prayer, and scripture — to cultivate a profound connection with the Father. We'll explore how scripture is a gateway to a relational experience with Jesus, offering insights into his nature and deepening our knowledge of His love. We'll also discuss Alan's thought-provoking approach of slowly reading scripture and integrating prayer, inviting reflection, and an open dialogue with Jesus through the pages of the Bible. The concept of "practicing the presence of Jesus" emerges as a transformative method to bring Jesus into the entirety of our experiences, even the difficult emotions, as a path to growth and prayer. We touch on the significance of stillness, as echoed in the Psalms and the book of Genesis, carving out space to gaze within and commune with our Creator, and how this practice informs a genuine personal reality. Finally, we'll touch upon Sabbath, emphasizing it as a treasured time of self-care ordained by God, an invitation to rest in gratitude rather than an obligation. Support the show ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST: - Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS - Like us on Facebook - Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - Follow Michael on Twitter - Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

    31 min

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Helping people become whole by cultivating deeper connection with God, self, and others. Visit www.restoringthesoul.com.

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