Asking Why

Episode 124: Jennifer Beich PLPC | Brainspotting

In this conversation, Jennifer Beich discusses brain spotting, a newer modality of therapy that focuses on trauma, anxiety, and depression. She shares her personal journey and the integration of neuroscience and Christian counseling. The conversation delves into the concept of spiritual bypassing, the role of the brain in healing, and the unique approach of brain spotting in addressing trauma and developmental issues. They also discuss the concept of brain spotting and its therapeutic impact, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in the healing process. It explores the integration of faith and therapy, the attunement of the therapist, and the significance of holding space for clients. Clint and Jen also compare brain spotting with EMDR and the Emmanuel Prayer, highlighting the organic and gentle nature of brain spotting. The conversation concludes with an invitation for individuals to explore brain spotting as a therapeutic tool for trauma and emotional healing.

 

Takeaways

• Brain spotting is a newer modality of therapy that focuses on trauma, anxiety, and depression.
• The integration of neuroscience and Christian counseling provides a unique approach to healing.
• Spiritual bypassing can hinder the healing process by intellectualizing experiences without addressing the emotional and physical aspects.
• Brain spotting accesses the brain's subcortical regions, allowing for deeper healing beyond intellectualization.
• It is important to honor a person's experiences and provide education about the brain's response to trauma and healing. Brain spotting is an organic and gentle therapeutic approach that allows individuals to access and process trauma without the need to recount the details of the experience.
• The role of the Holy Spirit in therapy is emphasized, highlighting the importance of faith and spirituality in the healing process.
• Attunement and holding space for clients are essential aspects of therapy, allowing individuals to feel heard, seen, and valued.
• The conversation explores the integration of faith and therapy, emphasizing the significance of allowing God to work through the therapist in the healing process.
• Individuals are encouraged to explore brain spotting as a therapeutic tool for trauma and emotional healing, with an invitation to seek out practitioners for support and growth.

Chapters

00:00 Accessing Subcortical Healing with Brain Spotting
27:59 The Therapeutic Impact of Brain Spotting and the Role of the Holy Spirit
33:30 Integrating Faith and Therapy: Attunement and Holding Space
48:24 Comparing Brain Spotting with EMDR and the Emmanuel Prayer
56:28 Invitation to Explore Brain Spotting for Trauma and Emotional Healing

Episode 123: Special Agent from the Texas Department of Public Safety | Combating Human Trafficking

In this episode, Clint Davis interviews a special agent from the Texas Department of Public Safety who works in the Criminal Investigation Unit. They discuss the difference between human smuggling and human trafficking, the importance of a victim-centered approach, and the prevalence of child exploitation online. They also highlight the need for parents to educate and equip their children about the dangers of social media and the importance of consent and privacy. The conversation covers various topics related to human trafficking, trauma, and the role of law enforcement in combating this issue. The speakers discuss the connection between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and individuals who become victims of trafficking. They also address the misconception that sex workers choose their profession without any trauma or coercion. The conversation delves into the psychological aspects of the sex industry and the contradictions within feminist ideologies. The importance of community involvement, support for victims, and the need for resources and counseling are highlighted. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the personal experiences and motivations of the law enforcement officer involved in combating human trafficking.

Episode 122: Ben Whalen | Clean Slate Botanicals (Entrepreneur Life)

Ben Whalen, owner of Clean Slate Botanicals, shares his journey as an African-American small business owner in Shreveport, Louisiana. He discusses his background, including his experience in corporate America and his passion for natural skincare products. Ben talks about the challenges and successes of starting his own business, his focus on creating products for all people, and the role of faith in his journey. Clint Davis shares his journey of faith and entrepreneurship, discussing the importance of finding balance and relying on God's guidance. He talks about the transformation of his business from Ben's Body Basics to Clean Slate Botanicals and the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clint emphasizes the need for community support and encourages listeners to shop locally. He also highlights the collaboration with local non-profits and his wife's talent as a singer.

 

Website: https://cleanslatebotanicals.com/

 

Episode 121: Taylor Jopling & Jo Ellen Gilliland | Tribe 31 Training

In this episode of the Asking Why podcast, host Clint Davis interviews Jo Ellen Gilliland and Taylor Jobling about their fitness business, Tribe 31. Jo Ellen shares her personal journey of struggling with an eating disorder and finding healing through weightlifting and macro tracking. Taylor talks about her passion for fitness and how she transitioned from real estate to becoming a trainer. Together, they started Tribe 31 to create a community for women to find strength in all aspects of their lives. The business is rooted in faith and aims to equip women with physical, mental, and spiritual training. In this conversation, Jo and Tay from Tribe31 discuss the importance of body positivity and self-acceptance. They emphasize the need to focus on overall health and well-being rather than striving for a specific body type. They also highlight the impact of language and behavior on children, emphasizing the importance of setting a positive example. The conversation touches on the role of community and support in achieving fitness goals and the importance of finding balance in life. Tay and Jo also mention their upcoming nutrition program, Macros and More.

Bios:

Taylor Jopling is a personal trainer and co-owner of Tribe 31 Training. She attended ULM for 3 years and then found her passion for personal training after helping her college friends in the gym. After finding her passion for women's personal training and nutrition coaching, she never looked back! Taylor has been training full-time for 6 years now. Taylor is married to her husband, Johnny, and a mom to her son, Shep.

Taylor and her business partner, Jo Ellen Gilliland, have created a positive space for women to achieve their goals in a group setting. Their mission is to equip women with strength in all seasons of life through physical, mental, and spiritual training. They provide coaching, consistency, & community to women of all ages which has led to more confident & empowered women.

Taylor believes every woman is on a journey, whether it's in the gym, at work, with family, or pursuing dreams.

Just like training requires discipline, achieving goals in life takes dedication. She wants to help women bring the gym mentality into their everyday lives, helping them unleash their inner strength and resilience.

Jo Ellen Gilliland is from West Monroe, LA where she resides with her two rescue pups Maggie and Zo. She is a former first grade teacher of 8 years at Drew Elementary. With a background in fitness it was a natural fit to switch roles to trainer and has been training full time for 14 years. She is currently co owner of Tribe31 Training, an all women’s gym that focuses on equipping women with strength in all seasons of life through physical, mental, and spiritual training. She believes that all women are training for something in and out of the gym. It might be education, career, family, or a dream. Just like physical training requires discipline, strength, and sacrifice so does accomplishing those goals. She seeks to help women bring that same mindset from the gym into their everyday life so they can embrace their own Wonder Woman.

Instagram:  @tribe31training

 

Episode 120 | Dr. Jo Anne Lyon | The Role of the Holy Spirit in Healing

In this conversation, Clint Davis interviews Dr. Jo Anne Lyon, the former general superintendent emeriti of the Wesleyan Church. They discuss topics such as the Wesleyan Church's history and beliefs, Dr. Lyon's experience as the first female general superintendent, the role of the Holy Spirit in healing, and cultivating a relationship with the Holy Spirit. They also touch on the topics of suffering, worth and value, and how change happens. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the Holy Spirit's role in counseling and the need to move beyond cultural stereotypes and embrace the transformative power of God's Spirit. The conversation explores the concept of discipleship and the importance of following Jesus in every aspect of life. It emphasizes the need for believers to be mature and accountable, and to use their gifts and talents for the benefit of the community. The speakers discuss the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and transforming individuals, and the importance of discerning the leading of the Spirit versus personal desires. They also highlight the value of art and creativity in expressing and sharing the message of Jesus. In this final part of the conversation, Clint and Jo Anne discuss the importance of speaking truth and grace, trusting God's vision, and being open to what God will do. They also talk about the need for funding and support in ministry and the importance of raising money. Jo Anne shares stories of her experiences in Sierra Leone and emphasizes the importance of taking steps of faith and trusting God's provision. They discuss the role of the church in overcoming evil with good and the need for every person to work together in the body of Christ. They encourage listeners to step out in faith and pursue their visions, trusting in God's guidance and provision.

Episode 119: Andy Coats | From Ministry to Writing

In this episode, host Clint Davis interviews author and entrepreneur Andy Coates. They discuss Andy's journey from full-time ministry to writing books and helping businesses. Andy shares about his various book series, including children's books on facing fears and books on entrepreneurship and money management. They also talk about the importance of supporting local resources and the impact of community connections. The conversation highlights the value of expanding our circles and learning from different perspectives.

Instagram: @theandycoats

Book Signing Event: https://allevents.in/bossier%20city/meet-the-authors-a-million-words-book-signing-celebration/200026261842618

Andy's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Andy-Coats/author/B0BHR4CXLY?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Episode 118: Jeremy Sutton | Physical Therapy and Mental Health

In this episode, host Clint Davis interviews Jeremy Sutton, a physical therapist and Christian counselor. They discuss Jeremy's journey in the field of physical therapy, his approach to holistic care, and his unique practice of providing physical therapy in patients' homes. They also touch on the importance of treating patients as whole individuals and the value of serving and caring for others. The conversation highlights the need for a more integrated approach to healthcare and the benefits of personalized, one-on-one care. Authenticity and integration of one's beliefs and actions are key in building trust and connecting with others. The purpose of all individuals, regardless of their profession, is to be a light and model Christ in their daily lives. The fulfillment of helping others and witnessing their healing and growth is a powerful motivator. We are all part of the body of Christ and have a role to play in sharing the love of God with those around us. The stories of the prodigal son, the lost coin, and the lost sheep remind us of the irrational and unconditional love and grace of God.

 

Episode 117 | Matt Branch | Healing from Porn Addiction

In this episode, Matt Branch shares his personal journey of recovery from pornography addiction. The conversation explores the complexity of addiction and the struggle with lust and pornography. It highlights the early exposure to explicit material and the impact it has on individuals. The importance of empathy and understanding addiction is emphasized, along with the impact of addiction on relationships. The conversation also differentiates between pornography addiction and sexual addiction. The role of group therapy in the recovery process is discussed, as well as the ongoing journey of recovery and the understanding of sin and God's love. This conversation explores the journey of recovery from addiction and the importance of faith in the process. The main theme is the goal of making Christ more and ourselves less, striving to be more like Christ every day. The conversation also emphasizes the need to let go of perfectionism and the pressure to be perfect in our walk with Christ. The three circles exercise is discussed as a tool for identifying triggers and creating boundaries. The importance of vulnerability and transparency in the church is highlighted, as well as the need for a culture of support and acceptance. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the cost of following Christ and the value of sharing testimonies for freedom and healing.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning
01:37 Matt's Story and Journey to Recovery
06:15 The Complexity of Overcoming Addiction
10:21 Early Exposure to Pornography
13:29 Empathy and Understanding Addiction
20:07 Differentiating Pornography Addiction and Sexual Addiction
22:21 The Importance of Group Therapy
25:12 The Journey of Recovery and Relapses
27:39 Understanding Sin and God's Love
28:38 The Goal: Making Christ More, Ourselves Less
29:36 Striving to Be More Like Christ Every Day
30:04 Embracing Imperfection and Letting Go of Pressure
30:30 Different Stories of Recovery
31:28 The Three Circles Exercise
31:51 Shifting Boundaries and Reducing Triggers
32:19 Continual Growth and Adjusting Circles
33:17 Aligning Inside and Outside Self
33:47 The Importance of Congruence
34:17 Making Surgical Changes in Recovery
35:16 Identifying Individual Trees in the Forest
35:45 Letting Go of Deficiencies and Finding Worth in God
36:37 The Addiction Cycle and Emotional Triggers
37:04 Recognizing Slow-Burning Triggers
37:34 The Importance of Being Aware of Surroundings
39:03 Knowing vs. Believing in God's Love
39:32 Putting Things on the Altar and Drawing Closer to God
41:37 Being Human and Vulnerable in the Church
44:29 The Language and Support of Therapy
45:49 The Importance of Vulnerability and Transparency
48:06 Creating a Culture of Vulnerability in the Church
50:04 The Gospel and the Works of Faith
51:04 Living Out the Love of Christ in Action
52:30 Putting Everything on the Altar for God
53:01 Identifying Idols and Surrendering to God
54:00 The Cost of Following Christ
55:27 The Value of Connection and Community
56:25 Sharing Testimonies for Freedom and Healing

Episode 116: Clint Davis | Handling Toxic Stress

In this episode, Clint Davis discusses the topics of vicarious trauma, burnout, and compassion fatigue. He explains the differences between these three concepts and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing them. Clint also introduces the concept of the window of tolerance and provides practical techniques for building a healthy window of tolerance. He encourages listeners to examine their beliefs about suffering and offers guidance on how to regulate the nervous system. Overall, the episode aims to provide support and encouragement for individuals who may be experiencing the effects of compassion fatigue and burnout.

Takeaways

Vicarious trauma, burnout, and compassion fatigue are distinct concepts that can impact individuals in helping professions.
Recognizing and addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. 
Building a healthy window of tolerance can help individuals better cope with difficult situations and regulate their nervous systems.
Examining beliefs about suffering and practicing grounding techniques can contribute to overall resilience and well-being.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
02:17 Vicarious Trauma
03:46 Burnout
07:04 Compassion Fatigue
09:26 Window of Tolerance
14:50 Building a Window of Tolerance
19:00 Beliefs and Suffering
22:45 Practical Techniques for Nervous System Regulation
23:20 Conclusion and Encouragement

Episode 115 | Mandy Dimarzo | Benefits of Excercise for Mental Health

Summary

In this episode, host Clint Davis interviews Mandy DiMarzo, a trainer and athlete, about her journey in sports and overcoming an eating disorder. They discuss the importance of changing the narrative around strength and athleticism, the impact of body image and body shaming, and the therapeutic benefits of activities like jiu-jitsu. Mandy shares her personal experiences with failure and the lessons she has learned along the way. They also emphasize the importance of self-worth and identity, and the need to focus on personal growth rather than external validation. The conversation explores themes of belief in human potential, celebrating failure, acceptance and growth, authenticity and influence, avoiding comparison, the power of authenticity, bringing faith and mental health together, and accessible workouts for everyone.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
00:43 Mandy's Background and Journey
03:28 Changing the Narrative of Strength and Athletics
04:54 The Tension Between Body Image and Body Shaming
07:21 The Impact of Sports on Mental Health
09:06 The Therapeutic Benefits of Jiu-Jitsu
13:36 Learning from Mistakes and Failure
18:19 Finding the Sweet Spot in Exercise and Life
20:26 The Destructive Nature of Eating Disorders
25:14 Shifting the Focus from External Validation
28:33 Embracing Mistakes and Growth
32:00 The Importance of Self-Worth and Identity
34:15 Learning from Past Struggles
37:26 Embracing Failure and Course Correction
39:08 Wisdom and Growth at Different Stages of Life
40:05 Belief in Human Potential
41:09 Celebrating Failure
42:53 Acceptance and Growth
45:06 Authenticity and Influence
50:28 Avoiding Comparison
54:11 The Power of Authenticity
55:30 Bringing Faith and Mental Health Together
56:05 Accessible Workouts for Everyone

 

 

Mandy's Info:

Website: https://mandydimarzo.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/burnbymandy/

Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandydimarzo/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/burnbymandy