Asking Why

Episode 150: Sam Austin | The Power of Community

This week Clint speaks with Sam Austin.  Sam grew up in Shreveport where he met his wife, Lindsay. They have 2 kids that keep us active and enjoy quiet evenings and simple lives. Sam has a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry from Leavell College and is a Licensed Pastoral Counselor through the National Christian Counselors Association.

After being trained as both an Infantryman in the Army and an EMT on the civilian side, God has inspired Sam with a passion for facing the darkest parts of life to help others grow stronger. He also currently work at The Hub: urban ministries serving people who have been affected by homelessness, poverty, and trafficking.  

 

Sam and Clint's conversation emphasizes the significance of suffering in personal development and the necessity of choice in faith. They reflect on their experiences and the ongoing nature of growth, healing, and the role of Jesus in their lives. 

Episode 149: Monica DiCristina MA, LPC | Your Pain Has A Name

In this episode of the Asking Why podcast, host Clint Davis speaks with therapist and author Monica DiCristina about her journey into therapy, the importance of naming pain, and the intersection of faith and mental health. Monica shares her personal experiences with anxiety and trauma, the transformative power of therapy, and how her faith has shaped her understanding of healing. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding mental health in faith communities and the need for clarity and understanding in the healing process. In this conversation, Monica and Clint delve into the transformative journey of restoration therapy, exploring the importance of authenticity in therapy, the challenges of writing a book, and the significance of naming one's pain. They discuss their personal experiences with therapy, the publishing process, and the insights gained from their journeys, emphasizing the need for therapists to be relatable and the continuous nature of emotional healing. In this conversation, Monica and Clint delve into the complexities of emotional healing, focusing on the importance of recognizing and naming the lies we tell ourselves, particularly those rooted in childhood experiences. They discuss the significance of emotional regulation, the impact of narratives formed in childhood, and the necessity of teaching children to articulate their pain. The dialogue emphasizes the need for authenticity in healing processes and the challenges of navigating emotional struggles in a society that often seeks quick fixes.

 

Episode 148: Lyle Barnard | Finding Gratitude in Burnout

In this episode of the Asking Why Podcast, host Clint Davis and guest Lyle Barnard discuss Lyle's journey from being a worship leader to a biblical counselor. They explore themes of faith, burnout, and the importance of community support in navigating career transitions. Lyle shares his experiences of feeling unfulfilled in his previous roles and the transformative power of admitting his struggles. The conversation emphasizes the significance of gratitude and God's kindness in the midst of uncertainty, as well as the challenges of balancing personal health with leadership responsibilities. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the dynamics of worship, leadership, and community within the church. They discuss the importance of engaging worship as a collective experience, the challenges of trust and communication among church staff, and the need for vulnerability and authenticity in leadership roles. The conversation emphasizes the significance of accountability, personal growth, and the role of community in navigating trauma and building resilience. Ultimately, they highlight the value of relational equity and the sacrifices necessary to foster genuine connections and support within the church.

Episode 147: Terri Robertson | Terri's Swim Academy

In this episode of the Asking Why Podcast, Clint Davis and guest Terri Robertson discuss the importance of swimming lessons and water safety, particularly in the context of cultural barriers and misconceptions surrounding swimming. Terry shares her personal journey of starting a swim lesson business, the challenges she faced, and how her faith played a significant role in her story. The conversation also delves into the psychological aspects of fear related to swimming, especially within the African American community, and emphasizes the need for water safety education for all ages. In this conversation, the Clint and Terri discuss the importance of addressing trauma through therapy before exposing individuals to potentially triggering situations. They delve into the Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) program, exploring its benefits and drawbacks, particularly in relation to children's emotional health and the potential for trauma. The discussion emphasizes the need for parents to balance safety and fear, encouraging informed decision-making based on research rather than societal pressure. Ultimately, the conversation advocates for creating a positive and enjoyable experience around water for children, highlighting the significance of water safety education.

Terri's Swim Academy Website: https://www.terrisswimacademy.com/

ISR information:

https://mybabyswims.com/debunking-myths-about-isr-separating-fact-from-fiction/

https://allknoxswim.com/isr-swim-lessons-a-caution/

https://bethrowles.com/swim-lessons-paying-for-trauma/

 

 

Episode 146: Clint Davis | Anxiety

In this episode, Clint Davis explores the pervasive issue of anxiety, discussing its causes, types, and the impact it has on individuals. He emphasizes the importance of understanding anxiety from both a clinical and biblical perspective, offering insights into coping mechanisms and the role of faith in managing anxiety. The conversation also highlights the significance of community support and practical techniques for grounding oneself in moments of anxiety. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder of God's presence and care in our struggles with worry and fear.

 

Episode 145: Christy Goodwin LCSW-BACS | Connect 1 Child

This week Clint speaks with Christy Goodwin. Christy joined the Louisiana Baptist Children's Home & Family Ministries staff in May 2019 as a Foster Care and Adoption Specialist for the Shreveport region. In May 2024, Christy was appointed as Connect1Child Director of Foster Care & Adoption Services. Christy received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Louisiana Tech University and a Master of Social Work from Stephen F. Austin State University. Christy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in foster care and adoption. She and her family also had the opportunity to serve as foster parents in Orleans Parish while her husband attended New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Christy is passionate about individuals, families, churches and organizations working together to respond to the current foster care crisis. When asked about her favorite part of her job, Christy said, "When a gospel-centered person or family answers the call to foster, I love seeing their friends, families and church members wrap around them with practical support and prayer. With Connect1Child, no one fosters alone." 

 

Handles: 

Facebook: @connect127.org

Instagram: @connect1childlbch

Website: www.connect1child.org

Episode 144: Laura Gauthier LPC | Understand Dementia

n this episode of the Asking Why podcast, host Clint Davis speaks with Laura Gauthier, a licensed professional counselor specializing in Alzheimer's and dementia care. They discuss the differences between Alzheimer's and dementia, early signs to look for, the causes and risk factors associated with dementia, and the impact of lifestyle choices on mental health. The conversation also touches on the importance of spirituality and nutrition in dementia care, emphasizing the need for moderation in diet and the significance of preventative health measures. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of mental health, particularly focusing on the impact of cultural standards on health choices, the challenges of caregiving for individuals with dementia, and the emotional toll it takes on families. They emphasize the importance of understanding root causes of behaviors, making informed health choices, and advocating for oneself in the healthcare system. The discussion also highlights the stigma surrounding dementia and the need for community support and resources for caregivers.

website: www.alzbridge.org

Episode 143: Dr. Terry & Sharon Hargrave | Restoration Therapy

In this episode of the Asking Why podcast, host Clint Davis engages with Dr. Terry Hargrave and Sharon Hargrave, pioneers of Restoration Therapy. They discuss the integration of psychology and theology, the importance of love and trust in relationships, and the journey of personal growth through therapy. The conversation highlights the collaborative nature of their work and the impact of their teachings on clinicians and couples alike. In this conversation, Terry Hargrave and Clint Davis explore the importance of self-regulation in relationships, emphasizing that personal growth and emotional health are crucial for intimacy. They discuss the role of faith in managing one's emotions and the transformative journey of Ron and Nan, who faced significant challenges in their marriage. The discussion highlights the power of confession and community support in healing, as well as the ongoing nature of personal growth and grace in relationships.

 

https://www.restorationtherapytraining.com

 

 

Episode 142: Casey Payne PA-C | Integrative Partners

This week Clint speaks with Casey Payne.  Casey was born and raised in Minden, LA and has lived in Shreveport since 2004. She enjoys spending time with my husband, Kevin, daughters Sadie and Chandler, and stepson Thatcher. Casey attended LA Tech University and received a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences with a minor in Chemistry after Tech she attended LSUHSC in Shreveport, LA and received a bachelor's degree in Physician Assistant studies in 2006.  She is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). Casey has practiced primary care medicine in Shreveport for 18 years and has a passion for educating patients regarding their health diagnoses. She feels it is important to consider their input as we formulate plans to care for their mind, body, and spirit. In 2020, she learned more about the root causes of illnesses that so many people young and old face today. During that time she enrolled in the Institute for Functional Medicine certification program and has incorporated functional medicine into my practice. She has seen significant shifts in health and well being for patients.  Casey has passed the certification exam and will submit her case study for certification in July 2025. Dr. Elizabeth Hudnall, who is also pursuing IFMCP certification, and Casey are proud to provide an integrative healthcare approach to our patients at our clinic - Integrative Partners. 

Website: www.integrativepartners318.com

Episode 141: Clint Davis | Hurricane Katrina - Part 2

Part 2, Clint Davis recounts his experiences as part of the National Guard during Hurricane Katrina. He shares the chaotic moments leading up to the storm, the overwhelming arrival of evacuees at the Superdome, and the challenges faced in providing aid amidst a crisis. The narrative highlights personal encounters, emotional struggles, and the complexities of disaster response, culminating in a reflection on the human spirit during times of adversity.

 

Picture Link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/o5p8qhugxa8r9fvum8dkt/ALfP_oNm4zPUqYiJJ3Jdo50?rlkey=tb3krps05x69wkb19s3jhdxsa&dl=0