Win Today with Christopher Cook

Marriage has a way of exposing the wounds we thought we had buried. The unresolved pain, the unspoken insecurities, the habits we hoped would disappear—they all surface in the crucible of intimacy. In this final installment of our LOVE LIKE THIS series, Dave & Ann Wilson—hosts of FamilyLife Today® and authors of Vertical Marriage—join us to discuss: Why your unhealed wounds inevitably show up in your marriage The devastating impact of words and how they can either crush or cultivate your spouse How intimacy, when misused, turns into manipulation Practical steps to break free from destructive cycles and foster genuine connection   With over four decades of marriage and ministry experience, Dave & Ann offer raw, relatable insights that challenge and inspire. Whether you're newly married or decades in, this conversation will equip you to confront the hidden dynamics that hinder true intimacy. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Many enter marriage believing it will be effortless—a seamless fusion of two souls destined for harmony. But what if this belief is the very thing setting couples up for disappointment? What if the key to a thriving marriage lies not in ease, but in intentional effort and understanding? This week on Win Today, Gabe and Rebekah Lyons join us to dismantle pervasive myths about marriage and intimacy. Drawing from their 28 years together, they offer candid insights into: The biggest lie about intimacy that's sabotaging relationships. Why viewing your spouse as a 'problem to solve' undermines connection. Understanding the anatomy of an affair and how to safeguard your marriage. The concept of marrying your emotional equivalent and its impact on relational dynamics.   In a culture that often glamorizes the idea of effortless romance, Gabe and Rebekah present a refreshing narrative—one that champions resilience, mutual growth, and the beauty of navigating challenges together. Whether you're single, engaged, or have been married for years, this conversation offers invaluable perspectives to cultivate a relationship that not only endures but flourishes. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

In today's swipe-right culture, many believe love is something you stumble upon—a serendipitous event. But what if that mindset is sabotaging your relationships? What if true love is less about finding and more about forging? This week on Win Today, Kait and JJ Tomlin, renowned dating coaches and hosts of the Heart of Dating podcast, join us to dismantle dating myths and offer raw insights into building intentional relationships. They delve into: The myth of "the one" and why love is intentionally built, not passively found. Differentiating between red flags and deal-breakers—and why knowing the difference can save you heartache. The art of sliding into DMs with authenticity and respect in the digital age. Empowering women to "drop the hanky"—taking initiative without compromising femininity.   In an era where ghosting is rampant and commitment is fleeting, Kait and JJ provide a refreshing perspective rooted in authenticity, intentionality, and faith. Whether you're single, dating, or reevaluating your relationship approach, this conversation offers actionable insights to navigate modern romance with clarity and purpose. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

We're in a relationship crisis. Everyone's talking about chemistry and compatibility, but no one's talking about maturity. And when emotional immaturity meets unaddressed shame, sexual frustration, and spiritual avoidance? It's a recipe for dysfunction. This week, Stephen Chandler joins Win Today to kick off a hard-hitting four-week series on relationships. In this conversation, we're getting real about the deeper issues driving relational pain—and why surface-level fixes don't work. Stephen unpacks: Why emotional immaturity is sabotaging modern relationships How sexual frustration creates silent fractures in marriages The role shame plays in both intimacy and avoidance The subtle ways we use spiritual language to hide dysfunction This isn't another “five tips for better communication” episode. It's a wake-up call. Whether you're dating, married, engaged, or trying to get back into the relationship game, this conversation will expose the patterns keeping you stuck—and invite you into a maturity that transforms everything. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.  

Let's be honest, when it comes to relationships, most of us are winging it. We chase chemistry, avoid conflict, and wonder why we keep repeating the same cycles. But what if the problem isn't compatibility... it's maturity?   This month on Win Today, we're tearing the lid off what no one wants to talk about—with a four-week series called LOVE LIKE THIS. These aren't fluffy conversations. They're real, raw, and disruptive—in the best way.   WEEK ONE (04/02): Stephen Chandler kicks us off with a hard-hitting conversation about emotional immaturity, sexual frustration, and how shame is sabotaging intimacy from the inside out. WEEK TWO (04/09): Kait and JJ Tomlin are coming for your dating life—talking about red flags, deal-breakers, why love is forged, not found, and yes… why women should absolutely drop the hanky. WEEK THREE (04/16): Gabe and Rebekah Lyons show up with the truth every married couple needs to hear—why your spouse isn't a formula to solve, how emotional pain sets the stage for infidelity, and why the marriage you want is built, not wished for. WEEK FOUR (04/23): Dave and Ann Wilson close out the series with a raw look at how your wounds are showing up in your marriage, the power of your words to either crush or restore, and how intimacy becomes manipulation when pain goes unhealed.   This is the series your relationship needs—even if it's not the one you want. Whether you're single, dating, married, or just trying to heal—LOVE LIKE THIS will call you up, not just call you out.   Subscribe now on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or YouTube, and don't miss a single week.

We live in a culture that demands constant performance, even in our spiritual lives. We're pressured to present a curated faith—one that hides our doubts, fears, and grief. But what if this relentless pursuit of a flawless facade is keeping us from experiencing the depth of God's presence? This week, Aubrey Sampson joins Win Today to explore the transformative power of lament—a practice often overlooked but deeply rooted in biblical tradition. She reveals: Why our obsession with performing for God leaves us spiritually empty The lost art of lament and how it draws us closer to the Lord The danger of avoiding grief and the mystery it holds for our formation Practical steps to embrace lament as a pathway to genuine faith For centuries, lament has been a sacred practice, allowing believers to express raw emotions and find solace in God's presence. Yet, today's fast-paced world encourages us to suppress these feelings, leading to a shallow faith experience. If you've ever felt the weight of unexpressed sorrow, struggled with the need to appear 'okay,' or wondered how to connect deeply with God amidst pain, this conversation is for you. Aubrey guides us back—not to a performative faith—but to an authentic journey where every emotion has a place before God. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

What if the way you pay attention is shaping who you're becoming? What if your deepest fears of being abandoned—whether real or anticipated—are keeping you locked in patterns of anxiety, shame, and self-protection? Today, Dr. Curt Thompson joins us to unpack the profound ways our minds and relationships shape our formation. We're talking about anticipated abandonment, the neuroscience of attachment, and how to cultivate rugged flexibility in the face of life's uncertainties. Dr. Thompson, a psychiatrist and expert in interpersonal neurobiology, reveals how the way we focus our attention—consciously or not—rewires our brains and forms our identity. If you've ever felt stuck in relational wounds or struggled to trust God and others, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we discuss: Why anticipated abandonment keeps us stuck in fear and self-protection The neuroscience behind shame and relational wounds How rugged flexibility helps us navigate pain without losing hope Why we become what we pay attention to—and how to shift our focus for transformation This is a deep, thought-provoking conversation that will challenge how you see yourself, your relationships, and your faith. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. • • Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

We live in a time where Christianity has been reduced to a formula for self-improvement. Faith is treated like a performance metric. And Jesus? For many, He's become little more than a life coach—a spiritual consultant who exists to make life better, not new. But that's not the real Jesus. That's an illusion. This week, Jamie Winship returns to Win Today with a message that will shake your understanding of faith. He reveals: Why most people unknowingly treat Jesus as a self-help guru—and how to break free The hidden reason why many Christians stay stuck in fear, anxiety, and control What it actually means to surrender—beyond just words The cost of real maturity, and why many people never step into their true identity For centuries, the Church understood that following Jesus required more than belief—it demanded transformation. But today, we've substituted depth for comfort. We tweak our lives, make small improvements, and wonder why we feel unfulfilled. If you've ever felt stuck in faith, frustrated by your lack of transformation, or trapped in cycles of striving, this conversation is for you. Jamie isn't here to give you another spiritual hack. He's here to help you finally step into the life you were made for. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

We live in an era where our attention is constantly hijacked. AI is replacing our ability to think deeply, faith is thinning out, and our addiction to instant information has left us drowning in noise but starving for wisdom. And in the midst of it all, trauma remains unhealed, relationships are fracturing, and many feel more disconnected from God than ever before. So, what's really happening beneath the surface? And how do we reclaim a faith that's deep, resilient, and transformative? This week, John Eldredge joins Win Today with one of his most urgent messages yet. He reveals: Why trauma won't heal through knowledge alone—and what actually works The hidden connection between shallow Christianity and the rising divorce epidemic How artificial intelligence is rewiring our brains and keeping us spiritually numb The critical practice that will restore your ability to hear God's voice today For centuries, the Church understood that deep transformation requires more than sermons and self-help tips—it demands practices that restore the soul, anchor the heart, and cultivate genuine encounters with God. But today, we've traded depth for distraction. We scroll endlessly, consume information without application, and wonder why we feel spiritually exhausted. If you feel stuck in faith, weary from digital overload, or frustrated by an inability to truly heal, this conversation is for you. John is here to guide you back—not to more information, but to the kind of faith that actually changes your life. Listen now. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Do you ever feel stuck in a version of life you never signed up for? Do you find yourself grasping for control when things don't go according to plan? This week, award-winning artist and songwriter Amanda Cook joins us for an honest, soul-stirring conversation about: Living life on life's terms (not your own) How powerless people act and how to reclaim agency Breaking free from the life you never wanted What it really means to be in the pocket of your purpose Amanda's journey—from growing up on a farm in Canada to becoming a leading voice in Christian music—has been one of deep personal transformation. In this episode, she shares how to navigate uncertainty, trust the process, and embrace the beauty of surrender. Don't miss this conversation—it's one that just might change how you see your own story. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

At some point, almost everyone hits a wall in their faith. The emotional highs don't last, the formulas stop working, and the deeper questions won't stay buried. Midlife, in particular, isn't just about aging—it's about confronting what's real, what's broken, and what needs to change. And if we're not careful, we settle for a faith that looks polished on the outside but leaves us spiritually depleted on the inside. That's why this conversation with Tim Ross is so crucial. Tim is known for his raw, unfiltered approach to faith and culture—challenging easy answers and pushing beyond surface-level spirituality. In this episode, we're diving deep into: Why spiritual formation in midlife requires a different approach than in your 20s and 30s. The right way to heal your nervous system—and why emotional and spiritual health are inseparable. Why curiosity and offense cannot coexist—and how learning to sit with discomfort leads to real transformation. The deceptive side of being ‘spiritual'—why some of the most "mature" believers are actually the most fragile. If you feel like your faith has stalled, if you're done chasing the next emotional high, or if you're wondering how to build true resilience in a culture addicted to outrage, this episode is for you. Listen now and start rethinking what real spiritual growth looks like. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Are you unknowingly addicted to relief? The truth about addiction, emotional numbing, and why real healing requires more than just self-control. This week on Win Today, Ian Cron exposes the truth about addiction, pain, and why we're all hooked on something. Whether it's work, achievement, relationships, control, or substances, we all have our own ways of numbing discomfort. But here's the real question: Is relief keeping you from real change? Are we all addicts? The hidden ways we self-medicate pain Pain relief vs. transformation: Why numbing doesn't work How the Twelve Steps can lead to lasting freedom—even if you're not an addict Why addiction is a spiritual crisis—and how to find true healing For over eight decades, the Twelve Steps have led millions out of addiction—not just from substances, but from self-sabotaging behaviors that keep us stuck. As someone who has walked the road of recovery firsthand, Ian knows that the real breakthrough isn't just in quitting bad habits—it's in having a spiritual awakening that radically reorients your life. If you've ever felt like you're stuck in cycles of unhealthy coping, or if you long for real joy beyond self-help quick fixes, this episode is for you. Listen now and take the first step toward real transformation. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week on Win Today, we're peeling back the layers of masculinity, identity, and emotional resilience with Jason Wilson. If you've ever felt trapped in cycles of emotional suppression, struggled with the pressure to be strong at all costs, or wrestled with the tension between vulnerability and leadership, this conversation is for you. Jason is here to expose the myth of the alpha male and reveal why true strength isn't about dominance, but about wholeness. He'll challenge us to stop running from the battles that make us feel weak—and instead, step into them with courage. Why emotional incarceration keeps so many men stuck How culture distorts masculinity—and what real manhood looks like Why avoiding pain makes us weak, and how to reclaim true resilience The foundation of comprehensive manhood and how it leads to freedom If you're tired of surface-level self-help and want real transformation, this episode will challenge you, stretch you, and equip you to pursue maturity in a way that lasts. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week on Win Today, we're wrapping up the Formed series with Bethel Music's Jenn Johnson. Together, we're exploring the transformative power of worship during life's chaos. Jenn shares profound insights on breaking free from toxic positivity, anchoring ourselves in God's unchanging nature, and discovering how worship shapes our spiritual resilience and wholeness.

This week, we're diving deep into the theme of spiritual maturity with someone who has profoundly shaped my life: Pastor Loren Covarrubias. Pastor Loren has been a mentor and guide to me since I was a young boy, making this conversation incredibly personal and meaningful. In this episode, we explore: Why people don't mature and the obstacles that hold them back. How to develop spiritual perception to navigate life's complexities. The dangers of mishandling the prophetic and its impact on spiritual growth. Why seasons of desolation are often where the Lord does His greatest work in transforming our hearts. If you've ever felt stuck in your faith or wondered how God works during life's most challenging seasons, this conversation will provide clarity, encouragement, and hope. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we delve into the critical need for a robust theology of suffering in our postmodern culture of self-help and self-directed spirituality. Joining us is Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church in Portland. Tyler, having personally navigated the profound experience of losing control amidst his battle with cancer, offers invaluable insights. We'll explore how God works through our pain, inviting us into a deeper understanding of His redemptive purpose. Furthermore, Tyler will address the concerning trend of how we've often misconstrued the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to become a tool for self-aggrandizement rather than a source of genuine transformation. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Are you stuck in frustration, wondering why growth feels so hard? This week, Fr. Ronald Rolheiser joins us to uncover the hard truth about maturity: it often leads us into the wilderness. But here's the good news—those wilderness seasons can purify your faith, dismantle harmful self-sufficiency, and transform your emotional and spiritual health. In this episode, we'll discuss: Why maturity requires us to let go of control. How mystery becomes our greatest ally in navigating life's challenges. The role of disillusionment in spiritual growth. What bitterness does to our emotional and spiritual health—and how to break free. Fr. Rolheiser's reflections on life, faith, and wisdom from nearly 80 years of experience. This conversation will inspire and equip you with the tools to embrace your wilderness season and experience breakthrough in your faith journey. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, it's you and me. We're unpacking how bitterness, cynicism, and unresolved pain can trap us in a cycle of frustration and blindness to God's work in our lives. Drawing from Luke 4 and Mark 6, we'll explore how the condition of your heart affects your ability to heal and mature. If you're feeling stuck, weighed down by offense, or questioning why breakthrough feels out of reach, this conversation will give you practical tools and biblical wisdom to take the next step toward transformation. And I want to start our series here, because, in the weeks that follow, I want you to receive from our guests with an open mind and heart, unencumbered by issues like bitterness, cynicism, and unresolved disappointment.

Hey friends, happy new year! I'm excited to share that coming to the podcast this week and running for the next several weeks is Formed, our annual series on spiritual formation. This week, I'm kicking off the series with a teaching on "How a Hardened Heart Blocks Healing and Maturity." Next week, Father Ronald Rolheiser joins us to discuss "Why Maturity Leads Us Into the Wilderness and Dismantles Self-Sufficiency." In two weeks, Tyler Staton teaches us how to lose the illusion of control. On January 22, one of my heroes, Pastor Loren Covarrubias joins us to talk about how to develop spiritual perception and why few believers pursue maturity. And on January 29, Jenn Johnson from Bethel Music joins us to talk about the value of worship in our formation journeys. No doubt, this will be a powerful series. See you on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.

This week, we delve into the hidden forces shaping our world. Veteran journalist Rod Dreher, author of "Live Not by Lies," joins us to discuss the dangers of soft totalitarianism disguised as niceness and comfort. We'll explore censorship, the silencing of dissent, emotional fragility, and the impact of secularism and therapy on our spiritual lives. This conversation is a deep dive into the complex issues affecting our mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we delve into a profound exploration of the power of words and the resilience of the human spirit. Joining us is Stephanie Duncan Smith, a gifted writer and editor who has a unique perspective on the complexities of faith and human experience. We'll discuss the often-overlooked power of language to shape our souls and the importance of embracing uncertainty. Stephanie will share insights on finding peace amidst life's storms, and how to navigate the challenging terrain of grief and loss, particularly during the holiday season. Whether you're seeking solace, inspiration, or simply a deeper understanding of the human condition, this episode is for you. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we're diving deep into the human experience with the incredible Bob Goff. In this episode, Bob will teach us how to live a more fulfilling life by exploring the power of virtue in a world often consumed by negativity. You'll also learn how to transcend the limitations of ego and embrace a life of authenticity and connection. We'll uncover the secrets to living with accuracy, a principle that can transform your relationships and your overall well-being. Whether you're seeking inspiration, practical advice, or simply a moment of reflection, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom from one of the world's most inspiring thought leaders. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, Strahan Coleman, part of the teaching team at Practicing the Way joins us. In this episode, we'll explore the insidious ways we've commodified God, the impact of Western liberalism on our spiritual lives, and the profound longing for an authentic connection with God. Strahan will guide us on a journey to unhinge our souls from the lie of abandonment and rediscover our deepest desire for God. Whether you're a seasoned believer or just beginning your journey, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical tools to deepen your spiritual formation and maturity. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we're diving deep with the renowned NY Times Bestselling author, Mark Batterson. We'll explore the intricate relationship between faith and culture, delving into the dangers of cultural relativism and the importance of grounding our beliefs in timeless truth. Mark will challenge us to rethink our understanding of self-creation and instead embrace a theology of dignity. We'll discuss how a diminished view of God can negatively impact our mental health and how a robust faith can offer profound healing and restoration. Join us as we navigate these complex issues with Mark Batterson, a thought leader who blends theological insight with practical wisdom. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we're joined by Rich Villodas, the Brooklyn-born lead pastor of New Life Fellowship and a key speaker for Emotionally Healthy Discipleship. Rich will be discussing how depersonalization, deception, and division are shaping our souls in a culture of contempt, how to honor people we don't respect, how to know if our souls are in danger, and the false images of God we often construct. Rich is a passionate advocate for emotional health and spiritual growth. He has a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life and to challenge them to live authentic, fulfilling lives. I'm excited to have him here for the conversation to share his insights and wisdom with us. It's a great conversation. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we're joined by Chad Veach, founder and lead pastor of ZOE Church in Los Angeles, California. In this episode, we'll discuss the inflection point when self-care becomes selfish. We'll also talk about the prevalence of biblical illiteracy in an age of narcissism, and how complaining can sabotage our futures and the foundations of insecurity. This is an important conversation to have, especially in today's world where mental health is often overlooked. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.  

This week, I'm excited to be joined by Dr. Merry C. Lin, a psychologist, and author with over 30 years of clinical expertise. Dr. Lin is an expert on the topics of emotional intelligence, trauma, and self-awareness. She's going to help us understand how our emotions can both guide us and mislead us, and how to develop a healthy relationship with our emotions. We'll also learn about the shadow self, the hidden parts of ourselves that we're often afraid to acknowledge. And we'll explore why our memories are often distorted and incomplete. This is a really important conversation, and I think it will resonate with a lot of people. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, Matt Chandler opens up about hitting a wall in 2022 and the emotional toll it took on him. We'll discuss the dangers of living a life emotionally muted, the anatomy of a moral failure, and the importance of a robust theology of suffering. As someone who's dedicated his life to serving others and building the Kingdom, Matt's insights offer a unique perspective on the challenges we all face. I'm thrilled you've joined us as we delve into these topics and explore what it means to finish well in life. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we're diving deep into the psychology of connection and healing with author and therapist, Chuck DeGroat. Chuck's insights on the root causes of disconnection, the role of trauma, and the power of self-compassion offer a profound perspective on personal growth. In this episode, you'll learn why our modern lives often leave us feeling isolated and overwhelmed. Chuck will guide us through practical strategies to calm our nervous systems, break free from self-hatred, and foster deeper connections with ourselves and others. Whether you're seeking to heal from past trauma, improve your relationships, or simply understand yourself better, this episode offers invaluable insights. Join us as we explore the transformative power of connection and self-compassion. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

People who crumble beneath the weight of rejection never realize their full potential, but people who learn to use rejection as a catalyst experience fulfillment in their lives. My friend Nona Jones is back on the podcast this week to discuss the roots of rejection, patterns of self-sabotage, and why positive thinking is a gimmick compared to the power of the renewed mind. She'll teach us about the two types of people in our lives. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Dr. Henry Cloud is back, and this week, he and I will unpack why he hates the term "self-help" and why structure in life drives our performance. See, our brains are wired to form habits, which are automatic, unconscious behaviors that are triggered by specific cues. Structure can help us establish positive habits and routines, which can improve our performance over time. We're also going to discuss why, in the journey of transformation, things often get worse before they get better and how tears drain trauma from our neurophysiology. Crying is often accompanied by a release of hormones, including cortisol, which is often associated with stress. The release of cortisol can help to reduce stress levels, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.  

It's episode 408 of the podcast, and today, Christy Osborne joins us to talk about addiction, specifically, how addiction forms us, why shame intercepts self-compassion, and the science of why alcohol isn't worth the use. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

It's episode 407 of the podcast, and this week, I'm excited to welcome back my friend, professional counselor Debra Fileta. In our fast-paced culture plagued with burnout, stress, and chronic fatigue, we often find that we're functioning out of emptiness. What would it be like to experience fulfillment in our lives that was both lasting and regenerative? Well this week, Debra and I discuss self-neglect, why burnout is so prevalent, and the difference between self-care and soul care. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, I'm excited to welcome back one of my closest friends, Hannah Brencher, to discuss why you can't manage what you can't measure and why we've swapped personal availability for being accessible all the time. We're also going to unpack the tactical side of breaking up well, why multitasking is inefficient, and why the private issues of our hearts are not pieces of content that must be published widely. This is, by far, not only the longest episode I've ever recorded, but I'd also like to suggest, one of the most vulnerable and thoughtful episodes. Hannah is a gift to all who know her, and if you're unfamiliar with her, I trust today's conversation will be a great introduction to an incredible person you're going to want to follow and learn from. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.  

I'm so glad to have Carlos Whittaker with us this week. A lot of people are languishing in their souls these days. Between the state of the economy, strain in relationships, lack of trust in leaders, and the landscape of our political scene, I've heard it said by many, "I just feel flat." Today, we're talking about overcoming dullness in our souls and how to let go of false responsibilities. We're also going to unpack Carlos's 7-week experiment of going completely screen-free, and, what the brain scans revealed both before and after the seven weeks. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.  

It's episode 404 of the podcast, and I'm thrilled to welcome my friend Graham Cochrane to the show. Graham is a successful entrepreneur, TEDx and keynote speaker, and bestselling author. His insights have been regularly featured in national media outlets like Forbes, CNBC, and Business Insider. And today, he's with us to discuss breaking scarcity thinking and what shame tells us in loss. We'll also unpack the question a lot of us face: How do we discern seasons of life? Graham and I also discuss minimalism and why we don't typically navigate disappointment well. It's a wide-reaching conversation, and I'm thrilled that you're here for it. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

If you grew up in the 90's, and watched TGIF every Friday night, I think you're going to love today's episode. Christine Lakin joins us today. Best known to us as Al Lambert from Step by Step, my conversation with Christine is anything but on the surface. It's intelligent, encouraging, and really challenging, as we discuss the value of repetition when no one else is watching and why embracing slow and steady development is the key to growth in life. Of course, we do have fun today, because, for many of you, she was your first TV crush. So, we get under the hood of what it was like to play Al on Step by Step and so much more. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Preston Perry joins us today and we're taking a deep dive into relearning emotional safety after trauma, why grief is a gift to receive, how therapy has become trendy (but not automatically effective), and why suffering purifies and strengthens us. Preston has such a unique take on life. Growing up, the streets of Chicago were his home, and it was there that he encountered all sorts of people who had their own versions of the truth. That's where Preston discovered not only the importance of the truth but how to tell the truth in a way that speaks to someone's heart and leads them to freedom and transformation. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Google's first Chief Innovation Evangelist, Frederik Pferdt joins us to discuss the cost of resisting change. One of the guiding principles for life is that change is not the exception, it's the rule. So, therein is an opportunity to grow in our willingness to move with it, not against it. To that, we're going to talk about why every experience in life leads to learning, if we have a growth mindset. We're also diving into how to live future-ready and why radical optimism has nothing to do with toxic positivity. And so, according to our guest today, we don't have to be afraid of what the future holds. Rather than bracing for what happens next, Dr. Frederik Pferdt argues that you can make what happens next. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.  

This week, we're celebrating episode 400 of the podcast. I'm thrilled you're here, and today, NYU Professor, TED Speaker Dr. Tessa West joins us to discuss the hidden symptoms of burnout and how to know when it's time to make a major change in life. I talk to more people whose lives are right here. They're burned out and wondering if it's time to make a change. Add to that, we're going to take a look at the myth of work-life balance. We're also going to talk about how to hurdle social awkwardness and why the modern dating scene is a dumpster fire. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Are you ready to break free from negative thought patterns and experience a profound transformation? In this solo episode, we dive deep into the practical steps to renewing your mind. Discover the powerful SEED method, inspired by Scripture and neuroscience, that can revolutionize your life. Learn why consistent mental renewal is as essential as daily hygiene and how to overcome the deceptive nature of your thoughts. Get ready to embark on a journey of personal growth and spiritual transformation as we explore the power of a renewed mind. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, I want to spend some time teaching from my book Healing What You Can't Erase. Last week, I taught you how to fight lies and strengthen yourself in the Lord whenever you face adversity. And two weeks ago, I taught you how to build resilience. But this week, I want to hone in on the central reason why we lose our inner drive and our courage to keep going when the fires of trial are blazing. And that reason is what Scripture describes as "the broken, crushed spirit." Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Feeling lost in doubt and fear? This week's episode explores Psalm 42, a raw prayer from the Bible where the Psalmist wrestles with despair. We'll delve into scripture to understand why our perspective gets cloudy during challenges, and discover practical ways to refocus on God's faithfulness. Learn how remembering His past victories fuels present hope, and gain biblical insights on renewing your resilience with the Lord's strength. Perfect for anyone facing difficulties and seeking encouragement from scripture. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

My solo series for summer break begins this week. In this episode, we're talking about building a growth mindset for unbreakable resilience. The world needs more resilient individuals – people who can face challenges with courage, overcome adversity with grace, and build a better future for themselves and those around them. By internalizing the lessons of Joseph's story, we can all embrace the power of resilience and embark on a journey of growth and transformation. Let Joseph's unwavering faith, unwavering spirit, and unwavering commitment to forgiveness inspire us all. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Too many of us are apathetic, busy, languishing, overwhelmed, distracted, and fearful. We're afraid of disappointing people. We struggle with people-pleasing. We work in a frenetic, unfocused manner. And so today, I want to talk about what I believe is a counter-tactic: living a focused, consecrated life. This week, I sit down with one of my key leaders, Dave, whom you met in chapter 6 of my book and also here on the podcast in late March. This is an important conversation for the day and hour we live. If you're burnt out, distracted, and fearful, we want to give you a roadmap back to focus and back to life. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Bethel Music's Josh Baldwin joins us to talk about leaving and grieving seasons of life and reshaping our expectations for real peace. This is so important because peace isn't the absence of conflict. Josh and I will unpack this idea with you today. We're also going to talk about how anxiety affects relationships, and how it affected Josh and his wife's marriage, as well as the supreme value of worship in shaping our emotional health. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Lee Cummings is back and this week, we're talking about why self-deception is the worst kind of deception, why fear is a vacuum to suffocate our potential, and why facts and truth aren't the same thing. You see, the greatest challenge you and I face, according to Lee, is staying awake in this present cultural moment of chaos. And so if the enemy can't lull you into spiritual apathy, deception is often his weapon of choice against you. And if he can deceive you, he can keep you from living out your purpose—God's purpose for your life. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, Willie Robertson joins us, and we're going to unpack the backstory of Duck Dynasty and how he learned how to flourish in every decade of life, especially in the face of adversity. Many of you might be exhausted in life right now, and you might think that you have nothing left in the tank, especially if you've experienced a measure of failure. Willie is going to shed light on that specifically and offer some really helpful advice. We're also going to discuss why we need to develop agility in a constantly changing world (and how to do it). Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, writing coach and author Ally Fallon is back to talk about the transformative, scientific, healing power of writing, specifically, writing about your life experiences. Here's why: writing aids in organizing thoughts and emotions, which can help manage the distress from traumatic events. In many ways, this exercise is based upon the work of Dr. James Pennebaker, and requires nothing more than a pen, and paper, and between 15-30 minutes each day. Its efficacy is backed by over 200 peer-reviewed studies. And if you're like me, eager to move forward and experience transformation in life, it is a powerful tool to employ. We're also going to talk about the pain of resistance and how writing aided her healing of an autoimmune disease. Episode Links: Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

One of my favorite guests is back this week, and that's Jon Tyson. Today, we're talking about breaking the hold of apathy over your life, navigating through a crisis of personal meaning, what it takes to be formed in private, and the joyful pursuit of sacrificial responsibility in an age of narcissism and self-obsession. Episode Links: Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Tasha Cobbs Leonard is here this week. Today, we're talking about unmasking the root of rejection, and freedom from self-hatred (a consistent theme for so many people I coach). A huge theme of the conversation centered around living a planted life, and then we talked about grieving with hope. Episode Links: Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.