A podcast focusing on connecting the Gospel to real life. Engaging interviews with pastors and counselors, transparent conversations with real people and practical application of biblical truth. Hosted by Soul Care Pastors Jeff Ballard and Ryan Berg from
This is it, the final episode of season 5. We dropped episodes weekly this season so it seemed to go quickly didn't it? Let's take a quick walk down memory lane and review what we heard this season and take a look at what is coming next season. We are taking a hiatus now as we produce the next season. We plan to be back this fall and to add a video component to what we present. We plan to be youtube sensations! Kidding, but seriously, we will be on youtube. How did you enjoy the season? We would love to hear feedback from you. DM us or comment on episode posts on instagram and follow us so you don't meet an episode. "See" you this fall! Join the conversation with us on Instagram. Need some help? We would love to come alongside you, contact us here. Send us a text
In the final episode of season 3 Jeff & Ryan tackled one of the hardest topics they have discussed yet. Forgiveness. Listen in as they talk about what forgiveness is, what it isn't and the common misconceptions regarding this tough issue. Also, forgive us (pun intended) for only doing a brief flyover in this episode. We will revisit this in future episodes! Follow us on instagram and join the conversation! Luma CounselingSend us a text
Bonus Episode! Oh boy, what a treat you listeners are in for today! Lisa Cuss, trauma therapist, Capable life coach, and all around amazing person joins Ryan today to talk about the phenomenon that is/was Inside Out 2. Now when this episode airs this conversation will have happened months ago. Unforeseen production delays have pushed it back far longer than anticipated but it is no less informative, encouraging, and helpful. Lisa walks us through how we, as followers of Jesus or not, might watch a film like Inside Out 2 and draw many beneficial things from it, even when its not an overtly faith-based film. Don't miss this one! Check out Capable Life here. Follow us on instagram and join the conversation! Luma CounselingSend us a text
Bonus Episode!Riley Greenwood is a friend of Ryan's and serves as the Student Ministry coordinator at College Park Church. She specifically oversees discipleship and the student ministry leaders. Riley is also a trained lay counselor and spends a lot of time with students helping them walk through the challenges they face from day to day. Today Riley just takes a few minutes to help all of us better understand how students experience life today and ways in which they're likely presented with mental health challenges you and I may never have faced. Send us a text
This is episode 3 in our mini series entitled "Life-giving Leaders." This one is on Ryan's top 5 list of favorite episodes of the podcast he has ever recorded. Ryan's dear friend and fellow leader Dan Kaskubar joins him today to talk about being a leader who leads with Love. That may sound cliche' but once you hear Dan discuss this, you will understand it is anything but cliche'. Dan has created and launched his own company, been an executive pastor in a church, and currently is working with organizations to establish affordable housing in the Denver metro area. Dan is an expert when it comes to leadership and that shines through on today's episode. He walks us through how to consider those we lead in ways that communicate love towards them while also helping them excel in their specific roles. Learn more about Dan and his good work here. Looking to engage with a leadership coach? Luma can help! Click here for more information. Follow us on instagram and join the conversation! Luma CounselingSend us a text
This is episode 2 in our miniseries entitled "Life-Giving Leaders."Returning guest Jimmy Carnes joins Ryan on the podcast today to talk about what it is like to lead from the 2nd chair, or "lead up" in an organization. Leadership is hard in the best of circumstances, it can be even more challenging when you're leading in a space where you're not the final decision maker on things. Jimmy carefully and compassionately walks us through how we should consider this monumental task and gives excellent insight into how we can take care of ourselves in the process. Check out Capable Life here. Looking to engage with a leadership coach? Luma can help! Click here for more information. Follow us on instagram and join the conversation! Luma CounselingSend us a text
Today's episode kicks off another mini-series highlighting Luma's care for leaders through coaching and counseling. We are calling this series "Life-Giving Leaders."On episode one of this series Ryan gets the privilege of interviewing Sean Nemecek. Ryan became aware of Sean during a season of burnout in his own life. The book was transformative for him and how he approaches a balanced life. Sean walks us through some thoughts on how to identify burnout and what to do both proactively and reactively when facing burnout. Get your copy of Sean's book here. Follow us on social media and join the conversation here!Send us a text
This is the fourth episode of our new mini series entitled "Luma in the Real World." In this series we will explore some of the most common issues we're seeing with clients in the counseling office. We will interview some excellent guests on the show who have written extremely helpful books recently on these issues. Ryan is flying solo again on today's episode. He takes a deeper dive into one of the tools used frequently when he counsels to help clients become aware of and unpack the root issues underneath presenting problems. In other words, lets talk about core beliefs. Learn more about Luma Counseling here. Follow us on social media and join the conversation here!Send us a text
This is the third episode of our new mini series entitled "Luma in the Real World." In this series we will explore some of the most common issues we're seeing with clients in the counseling office. We will interview some excellent guests on the show who have written extremely helpful books recently on these issues. Author and counselor Jonathan Holmes joins the podcast today to help us unpack what it looks like to raise kids in today's cultural climate. He also gives some excellent examples of ways in which we can point our kids to Christ. Get your copy of Jonathan's book here. Follow us on social media and join the conversation here. Send us a text
This is the second episode of our new mini series entitled "Luma in the Real World." In this series we will explore some of the most common issues we're seeing with clients in the counseling office. We will interview some excellent guests on the show who have written extremely helpful books recently on these issues. In today's episode Mark Vroegop, Pastor and President of the Gospel Coalition chats with Ryan about his experiences with waiting and how he has learned to embrace them in a way that teaches him more about Jesus. Get your copy of Mark's new book here. Check out the Gospel Coalition here. Follow us on social media and join the conversation here!Send us a text
This is the first episode of our new mini series entitled "Luma in the Real World." In this series we will explore some of the most common issues we're seeing with clients in the counseling office. We will interview some excellent guests on the show who have written extremely helpful books recently on these issues. Steve Cuss is back on the podcast today helping us consider the very real gap that often exists between what we believe about God and what we often experience with God. Get your copy of Steve's new book on Amazon here. Join Capable Life here. Follow us on social media and join the conversation here. Send us a text
Today is a solo episode. Join Ryan as he helps bring some context to the ways in which Luma helps clients grow and change. It may sound simple, but it couldn't be more complex! This might be one to take a few notes on and share with a friend! Send us a text
She's back! Listener's favorite guest, Marla Vroegop who also just happens to be a counselor with Luma Counseling is back on the podcast today! Marls Barkley is back to help us navigate what it looks like to be clinically informed as christian counselors. This is where we kind of put all four distinctives together. Christ-Centered, Biblically-Based, Culturally Responsive and Clinically Informed. Marla helps us walk this fine line in a way that only Marla can. She encourages and challenges us in this episode and helps bring even more clarity to who Luma is. Production Note: This interview was conducted virtually and there were some technical difficulties. Please bear with us, we don't think they will keep you from understanding and benefitting from my conversation with Marla. Send us a text
It's episode 4 in our mini-series on "Who is Luma" and in today's episode you'll meet Bekah Capriglione, a current Luma counselor and just a joy to be around. Bekah brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm to the team as well as a nuanced understanding of what it looks like to counsel in a way that is Christ-Centered, Biblically Based, and Culturally Responsive. Being responsive to our current cultural climate in a way that is faithful to the authority of God's Word is a delicate balance. Join Ryan and Bekah as they discuss this and give some examples of how Luma strives to be culturally responsive. Send us a text
In episode 3 of the mini series entitled "Who is Luma" current Luma counselor Wilson Phang joins us to discuss the second of Luma's core distinctives: Luma is Biblically-Based. Wilson has a wealth of experience as a counselor, pastor and simply as a follower of Jesus. He does a great job of helping us process what it looks like to counsel in a way that is both Christ-Centered and Biblically-Based. Send us a text
Episode 2 of our mini series on "Why is Luma" brings back former podcast cohost Jeff Ballard, pastor of Soul Care at College Park Church, who also serves as a member of the board of directors for Luma Counseling. He helps us walk through the first of Luma's core distinctives: Luma Counseling is Christ-Centered.Join Ryan and Jeff as they discuss what it means to counsel in a way that is Christ-Centered and how we strive to live that out at Luma Counseling. Send us a text
Welcome to season 5! As our podcast is now presented by Luma Counseling we felt it would be wise to help our listeners get a better idea of who Luma is and what Luma does. For this first mini-series join Ryan as he introduces you to the people behind the work at Luma Counseling. Meet some of the counselors, here how they practice and learn more about Luma! In this episode Tyler Riffe, assistant pastor of local outreach at College Park Church and former Executive Director of Luma Counseling discusses the history of Luma and how it came to be. It's an interesting story and gives a good foundation to build off of for the rest of the season. Send us a text
Just a quick update about season 5! After numerous production delays, Season 5 is coming at you February 2025 and will be released weekly! Stay tuned for more from the Soul Care Matters Podcast presented by Luma CounselingSend us a text
Hello listeners! The Soul Care Matters Podcast has packed everything up and is moving to a new home. But don't worry, you will still get new episodes every other week starting in January 2025. Join the guys this week as they talk about the history of the Soul Care Matters podcast, where it's moving to and why it's moving and...a discussion about the Golden Girls? Mentioned in the show: Luma Counseling @lumacounseling on Instagram & FacebookSend us a text
What an episode we have for you today! If you're one who likes quotable and tweetable nuggets of wisdom, this is your episode! Today the guys spend some time with friend and Pastor Zach Cochran to continue the discussion of holistic care for oneself. Today the conversation turns to emotional a health, and vital piece of the puzzle. Zach provides insight and information in the winsome manner that only he can. Don't miss this one! Send us a text
She's back! Listener's favorite guest, Marla Vroegop, is back with us on this episode to continue our series on self-stewardship. She is going to talk to us about embodiment and even walk us through an exercise she often uses in the counseling room to help others pay attention to what their God-given bodies are telling them. Send us a Text Message.
Join Jeff and special guest Pastor Bob Martin as they continue the series discussion on holistic care of self. In this episode they dive into what it looks like to care for oneself spiritually. This isn't your typical "read your Bible more" kind of chat, this ones gives far wider and more helpful and practical perspective. Send us a Text Message.
Today the guys are introducing a new series on Biblical Self-Stewardship or Biblical Self-Care. This is a necessary topic for our world right now. Jump in with the guys and hear about why this is something we should consider. Resources mentioned: The Whole Life: 52 Weeks of Biblical Self-CareSend us a Text Message.
Author, counselor and speaker Jonathan Holmes joins the guys today to discuss sexual integrity and his book "Rescue Plan" that helps folks break free from sexual sin. Resources mentioned in this episode: Jonathan's Book Rescue Plan: Charting a Course to Restore Prisoners of PornographyAn Open Letter to Those Frustrated by Their Progress in SanctificationHelping Those Who Are Dating or Engaged to Someone Who Views PornographyThe Hope of Renewal for the Sexually Broken
Join the guys as they welcome good friend Jim Soots to the podcast to discuss his history with sexual sin, his path to freedom and how God is now using him and his story to help others find healing and forgiveness in that area.
Today the guys start a new series on Sexual Integrity and the devastating effects of sexual sin. Join Jeff & Ryan as they talk about the important underlying reasons why people often fall into this trap.
Join guest host Marla Vroegop this week as she sits down with her friend Rhoda as she shares her traumatic loss and impact it's had on her life. Listen as Rhoda encourages us with how she has walked through this trauma and how she has experienced the love of Jesus during some of the most challenging moments.
Man, this one is GOOD! Join Ryan & Jeff as they welcome Beth Broom to the show to share her experience and expertise regarding ways in which we should consider trauma. Whether you are a trauma survivor, caring for a survivor of trauma or simply want to know more about this topic, this episode is for you!Beth's WebsiteChristian Trauma Healing NetworkMinistering to Survivors of Trauma Free Webinar
It's time for a new series on Trauma. This is a tough one to dissect quickly, so we will take our time. In this episode the guys simply talk about trauma, what it is, how its become such a buzzword, and how should we, as followers of Jesus, consider this important topic?
In our ongoing series on friendship, we have invited life-long friends Megan & Sarah to join Ryan and talk about their friendship, what makes it work, what makes it last, and how other might go about developing new friendships. This is a good one, you'll laugh, cry, and maybe even learn a thing or two!Listen to Megan's Lifestory Episode Empathy vs Sympathy Video - Brene Brown
This episode has to be Ryan's favorite episode ever of the Soul Care Matters podcast. In this episode Ryan is joined by three of his closest and most life-giving friends for a roundtable discussion about friendship, how theirs began, how it works through conflict, and practical ideas for establishing friendships of your own. Made for People: Why We Drift into Loneliness and How to Fight for a Life of Friendship - Justin Early
Welcome to the new series on friendship. This one is going to be a little bit of a different vibe. In this series we will talk about the need for friendship, how the lack of it affects you, and even hear some strong friendships discussed and unpacked.
It's the third episode in our opening series on anxiety. This is the episode that will provide some practical tools for you to put in your tool belt as you seek to manage your own anxiety. This is just an overview as you could do a years long podcast just on this topic. If you want an even deeper dive, consider joining an Managing Anxiety Cohort with Luma Counseling or joining the Capable Life online community! Luma CounselingCapable Life
This is episode 2 of our series discussing anxiety.It's finally here! This is the episode Ryan has been wanting to produce for almost three years. Join Ryan & Jeff as they welcome pastor and author Steve Cuss to the podcast to discuss chronic anxiety and it's effects on us but also some helpful ways to manage it. If you're only able to listen to one podcast this week, make sure this is the one! Links to resources mentioned in this episode:www.capablelife.meNote: Since recording this episode Steve's podcast has been picked up by the Christianity to day podcast network. You can now access his podcast here: Being Human with Steve CussThe Expectation Gap: The Tiny, Vast Space between Our Beliefs and Experience of God (Pre-Order) Steve's Website
Welcome back! We are here with season four of the Soul Care Matters Podcast. In this episode Jeff & Ryan talk about how season 4 will be a little bit different and intro our first series topic: Anxiety.
Thanks for listening to season three of the soul care matters podcast. We hope you enjoyed it. We are already busy producing season 4. Listen in and get a quick sneak peak into what we have in store for you next season.
In the final episode of season 3 Jeff & Ryan tackle one of the hardest topics they have discussed yet. Forgiveness. Listen in as they talk about what forgiveness is, what it isn't and the common misconceptions regarding this tough issue. Also, forgive us (pun intended) for only doing a brief flyover in this episode. We will revisit this in future episodes!
Today the guys are joined by Dwight and Kim Wharton. These two have been married for more than 34 years and provide some insight and funny stories that help illustrate the ways in which they have maintained and even thrived in marriage.
Today the guys welcome friend and Licensed Mental Health Counselor Dr. Michael Trexler to discuss ways in which caregivers, counselors, pastors, people-helpers can struggle to maintain work/life balance and also ways in which they can pursue health.
Pastor Alex Anderson joins the guys today to share some insight and practical wisdom on the daunting task of navigating technology with students and kids. Don't miss this one, its extremely helpful.
Rejoin the conversation from our last episode where we began unpacking the critical concept of childhood vows.
This week the guys tackle the concept of childhood vows. This one is particularly meaningful in Ryan's life. Listen to his story of how childhood experience and the vows he made as a result greatly impacted his life, even to this day. This is part 1 of a 2 part series on Childhood vows.
Today you'll hear a familiar voice sharing their lifestory. Pastor Mark Schuitema, executive pastor at Pennington Park Church shares his story of rescue and redemption.
Capable Life Coach, Jimmy Carnes, joins the guys this week to give some insight into this anxiety tool called "differentiation." Ryan says this is one of the most helpful and profound episodes he's ever been a part of. This is one you don't want to miss. If you're interested in learning more about differentiation and learning how to manage anxiety, consider joining our friends over at Capable Life. Their subscription service will give you everything you need and then some to learn how to notice, name, and diffuse anxiety through the power of the Gospel of Christ. Capable Life
In this episode the guys welcome back one of their favorite guests, Marla Vroegop, licensed social worker and counselor at College Park Church. She shares much of her research, insight and experience working through attachment theory with those in her care. This episode is especially poignant and beneficial, check it out today. Video referenced in episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeHcsFqK7So
Come listen to Angie's story about growing up and some of the trials that came her way, how they affected her, and how she has processed that as a follower of Jesus. This is a good one that many will relate to.
Just kidding! You will probably listen to more, but this one is gold. Pastor Mark Schuitema joins us to discuss wise parenting through different ages and stages. We are sure this one will generate questions, so send them our way and we will bring Mark back for part two! DM us on our instagram. @collegeparksoulcare
This is a "don't miss" lifestory. If you or anyone you know struggles with chronic pain, this is one for you. Come hear our friend Megan share about her experiences with that and what it looks like to "find her squad."
One of College Park Church's 2023 "Think Conference" speakers joins the show today to discuss his book "Following Jesus in a Digital Age" and to help share a philosophy of using technology with wisdom and to the glory of God. To purchase Jason's book click here.
We're back and better than ever! Join the guys as they give an overview of season 3 of the Soul Care Matters Podcast. This season is going to be better than ever, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. Share this podcast with 3 friends this week and lets watch the audience grow!
It's hard to believe, but this is the last episode of season two! Jeff and Ryan take a short walk down memory lane from season two and give a look ahead to what season three holds. NOTE: At the time of this recording there was one additional episode that would have come out before this one. Due to unforeseen circumstances, that episode isn't available. So the guys refer to 15 episodes in season two, but there are actually only 14. Not to worry though that "lost episode" will air in season 3!