The CrossCounsel Podcast

202 | When the Net Doesn't Hold

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 03:00:00 -0500

What does it really mean to be equipped as a follower of Jesus?

It’s more than knowing the right answers. In the Gospels, the biblical picture includes fishermen mending their nets—repairing the weak places so the nets are ready for the strain ahead.

In this episode, Steve explores why CrossCounsel pays attention to emotion without making emotion the destination, how our present struggles can expose what our hearts actually believe, and why truth needs to reach deeper than our heads.

Then we revisit a powerful 2012 CrossCounsel video featuring men describing what happened when they stopped assuming this is as good as it gets and began inviting God into the places that weren’t holding.

In a world of increasing darkness, we don't just want to know the truth. We want to be mended, strengthened, and equipped to stand.

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201 | Friends in Pursuit: Living the MELT Process Together w/ Lindsey & Hannah

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Lindsey and Hannah have spent more than a decade walking through life—and the MELT Process—together. In this episode, they share how friendship, prayer, and honest heart-level work have helped them become more rooted, secure, and surrendered to Christ.

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200 | Shane Holden (Part 3): Called by God

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0500

We're grateful to mark Episode 200 of the CrossCounsel Podcast with the conclusion of our three-part conversation with Pastor Shane Holden, Senior Pastor of First Free Church in Onalaska, Wisconsin.

Shane begins by sharing how God unexpectedly led him and his family to the La Crosse area in 2010. But the heart of this final episode is his deeply personal testimony of how Christ's truth finally reached the deepest places of his heart.

After years of carrying hidden childhood wounds and the lies they produced, Shane describes a life-changing encounter with Jesus during a CrossCounsel session. Although he had preached these truths for years, experiencing them personally was altogether different. He recalls it as feeling "like getting born again again."

Today, that experience continues to shape his ministry. When people at First Free are looking for this kind of heart-level healing, Shane and his staff regularly point them across the street to CrossCounsel.

We pray this conversation reminds you that Jesus doesn't simply give us truth to understand—He brings truth to the very places where we need to encounter Him most.

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199 | Shane Holden (Part 2): Called by God

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we continue our conversation with Pastor Shane Holden as he reflects on the early years of Mad City Church, the unexpected ways God confirmed His calling, and how our paths first crossed more than twenty-five years ago. Along the way, we revisit stories of God's remarkable providence, lasting friendship, and the quiet ways He often goes ahead of us, preparing what we cannot yet see. It's another encouraging reminder that we rarely understand God's plan in the moment, but His faithfulness becomes much clearer when we look back.

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198 | Shane Holden (Part 1): Called by God

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Steve Freitag and Pastor Shane Holden have shared more than 25 years of friendship—raising families, serving in ministry, walking through seasons of blessing and heartbreak, and watching God faithfully lead each of them on different paths. Though they now serve in different parts of Wisconsin, they've remained close friends since the early days of CrossCounsel. Today, CrossCounsel's Onalaska office sits just across the street from First Free Church—an unplanned proximity that reflects a long-standing partnership. Over the years, many people from First Free have found healing through CrossCounsel, making the church one of our closest ministry relationships.

In this conversation, Shane—whose church welcomed nearly 5,000 people over Easter weekend this year (2026) —shares the remarkable story of how God called him from a childhood marked by addiction, abuse, and brokenness into a life of faith, family, and ministry. It's a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace and that God delights in writing stories no one could have imagined.

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197 | The Peace of a Cannonball (and a Night & Day Difference)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Bob Jackson is relatively new to CrossCounsel, but the change in his life has been, in his words, a "night and day difference."

In this unscripted conversation, Bob shares how moving from self-protection to surrender has brought a new sense of peace, freedom, and dependence on Christ. Along the way, Steve introduces the "cannonball with skin on" illustration to explore how Jesus experienced every truth-based pain of humanity without ever allowing falsehood to penetrate His identity—and what that means for our own journey of transformation.

A conversation about surrender, peace, and the transforming work of Christ in the heart.

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196 | The Anger We Don't Admit

Wed, 20 May 2026 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the CrossCounsel Podcast, Steve reflects on emotionally healthy spirituality, hidden pain, and the tension many Christians feel between outward faith and inward struggle.

Drawing from a recent class discussion and the CrossCounsel MELT process, the conversation explores how buried anger, grief, fear, and shame often remain underneath spiritual performance and Christian language. Rather than glorifying emotion, this episode emphasizes that emotions can serve as signals pointing toward deeper heart-level beliefs that need God’s truth and healing.

Topics include emotional honesty, spiritual bypassing, discernment, discipleship, suffering, and the difference between information and true transformation. Steve also shares personally about recent loss, ministry growth, and the importance of prayer during this season for CrossCounsel.

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195 | Transformation Toward Your God-Given Mission

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500

Steve concludes his conversation with Dwight Clough where they discuss how true transformation begins not with information, but with intentionally meeting with God in the places we most want to avoid. They emphasize that God has a meaningful mission for each person and desires to walk closely with us, bringing both joy and purpose. Rather than running from pain, growth comes when we willingly step into it, trusting that Christ is already present there. They explore how suffering, when engaged with God, becomes a pathway to deeper healing and confidence that we cannot manufacture on our own. The conversation also challenges rigid certainty, highlighting the importance of humility, being open to being wrong, and engaging others with curiosity instead of defensiveness. As trust and understanding grow through listening, relationships deepen. Ultimately, they point toward a renewed expression of Christianity marked by transformation, love, and a shared pursuit of God’s purpose in everyday life.

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194 | Loving What God Loves - with Dwight Clough

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we continue our conversation with Dwight Clough around two foundational questions: Who are we, and why are we here? Dwight points to the Great Commission as central to our purpose—not as a narrow call to make statements, but to make disciples.

He draws a clear distinction between making declarations and actually loving people well, as Jesus did. True disciple-making begins within, as God brings peace, healing, and alignment to our own hearts, which then flows outward into relationships and communities.

Reflecting on the parable of the talents, Dwight challenges us to consider what God has entrusted to us—and how we are using it in this season.

Ultimately, this episode invites us to think bigger, live transformationally, and love what God loves—remembering that none of us have arrived.

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193 | Why Real Transformation is Harder Than We Think - with Dwight Clough

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Steve Freitag sits down with Dwight Clough, author and longtime friend of CrossCounsel. Dwight and his wife Kim first connected with the ministry nearly 25 years ago, shortly after the events of 9/11, when they encountered the teaching of Dr. Ed Smith and the foundations of what would later become known as the MELT process and Transformational Prayer Ministry.

Dwight is the author of numerous books exploring faith, transformation, and the inner life. He co-authored Amazing Faith (Moody Press) and has written several other influential works including What I Believe About You, End the Divide, The Gift of Transformation—a CrossCounsel favorite—and a new book he will discuss in this conversation.

Many people first approach prayer ministry because they are struggling with something—fear, anxiety, shame, destructive patterns, or difficulty forgiving someone. But as Dwight explains, what begins as a search for healing often becomes something deeper: an invitation into ongoing transformation and communion with Jesus.

In the conversation Dwight shares a personal story about discovering the roots of anger that surfaced whenever his wife became sick. What began as frustration uncovered a deeper childhood memory connected to fear and insecurity when his own mother was ill. The shift that followed was not simply a new insight—but an encounter with truth that changed his heart.

Together they explore:

• Why many Christians think inner healing is about fixing a problem rather than living in transformation
• The difference between intellectual insight and heart-level freedom
• Why experiencing the love of God can actually feel difficult or even frightening
• How fear, shame, and cultural expectations keep many believers from being honest about what is happening inside them
• Why real change comes when Jesus meets us in the places we feel most broken

Ultimately, this conversation points toward a deeper reality of the Christian life: transformation does not come from trying harder or understanding more information—it comes from encountering the truth and love of Christ in the deepest places of the heart.

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192 | Truth and Transformation: A Conclusion That Continues

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0600

This title reflects an important reality: while this episode concludes our focused MELT series, the work of truth and transformation in our lives never truly concludes.

In this conversation, Steve and Mary finish their discussion on the T in MELT — Truth and Transformation, bringing this series to a close for the time being. They reflect on why identifying memories, emotions, and lies is only part of the journey, and why lasting change comes when the Spirit of Jesus brings truth to the places where lies once lived.

Steve then offers a final word, connecting this work to Scripture. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 4:3 and Romans 12:2, he explains how sanctification and the renewing of the mind describe the same transforming work of God — a process that produces real peace, forgiveness, and the fruit of the Spirit in our lives.

The series concludes, but the work of truth and transformation continues.

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191 | More Truth That Transforms, Not Just Informs

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0600

Last week we reached the final letter of MELT — the T.

This episode is Part 2 of 3 focused specifically on Truth and Transformation.

If you haven’t yet listened to Episodes 184–190, we encourage you to start there. Those conversations lay the practical foundation for understanding what MELT is and how it works. There are biblical insights woven throughout, but this isn’t abstract theology — it’s grounded, lived, and deeply practical.

In this episode, we continue exploring what makes CrossCounsel distinct. We’re not aiming for behavior management, symptom relief, or just gaining insight. We’re after something deeper — truth moving from the head to the heart, where long-held beliefs have quietly shaped how we see ourselves, others, and even God.

This is where real transformation begins.

Part 2 of 3 on the T is now available.

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190 | Truth That Transforms, Not Just Informs

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0600

Steve and Mary begin their discussion on the final letter of MELT — Truth and Transformation.

In this episode, they clarify the difference between information and transformation, and why managing behavior or repairing patterns is not the same as removing the lie underneath them.

What sets CrossCounsel apart is its emphasis on T & T — allowing the Spirit of Jesus to persuade the heart into His truth where false, core beliefs once felt true.

Because truth that informs is helpful.
But truth that transforms changes everything.

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189 | Lies: An Ongoing Conversation About What Drives Us

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0600

This episode flows directly from Episode 188 and is meant to be heard in that context, where the foundational CrossCounsel teaching on lies—heart-level beliefs that drive emotional pain—was clearly defined. Building on that foundation, Mary and I explore how these beliefs form through life experiences and continue to shape emotion, behavior, and relationships long after the events themselves.

At the heart of this conversation is a simple but essential conviction: the experiential heart-level beliefs we carry cannot be reasoned away or managed through effort—they can only be truly expelled when they are met and replaced by the Lord’s experiential truth. We hope this episode brings clarity, hope, and encouragement as you listen.

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188 | Lies: Getting to the Core Lies That Drive Our Pain

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Steve and Mary return to the basics of CrossCounsel and the MELT process. Steve begins the podcast by clarifying what we mean by core lies, how they form through life experiences, and why these heart-level beliefs—rather than memories or circumstances themselves—are what drive emotional pain. If you’ve missed our recent episodes on memory and emotion, this introduction will be especially helpful.

Mary then joins Steve as they share miraculous examples of lives transformed when core lies are uncovered and replaced with God’s truth, offering a grounded picture of how lasting change reaches the heart, not just the head.

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187 | "Undone by Jesus" with Lindsay Bonnar

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0600

We take a brief detour from our series on defining the MELT Process to sit down with Lindsay Bonnar. Lindsay shares with ease how the MELT Process has impacted not only her own life, but the lives of her family as well.

Steve also offers a few reflections on how addressing lie-based thinking doesn’t simply resolve wounds from the past, but can also serve as a form of prevention—interrupting patterns that often lead to poor choices and the consequences that follow.

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186 | Emotion: The Doorway, Not the Destination

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0600

This episode begins with Steve laying some groundwork around emotion—why it matters, what it reveals, and how it fits within the MELT process, illustrated through an everyday moment at Costco. Later in the episode, Mary joins Steve to expand on these ideas and reflect together on how emotional awareness can open the door to deeper transformation.

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185 | Don’t Let Your Unconscious Direct Your Life: More on Memory

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0600

We wanted to come back to the topic of memory—not because we missed something last time, but because memory matters more than most people realize. It’s not just about what happened; it’s about what continues to shape us, often outside of our awareness.

In this conversation, Steve and Mary build on the previous episode and add real-life examples from ministry and experience. We talk about how unresolved memories quietly influence reactions, relationships, and spiritual posture. When those places remain unexamined, they don’t stay neutral—they lead.

Even someone like Carl Jung, who was not writing from a Christian framework, observed something worth paying attention to: what remains unconscious will direct your life, and you’ll call it fate. Scripture affirms that same reality in its own way—what is hidden in the heart shapes the course of a life until it’s brought into the light.

This episode isn’t about digging for the sake of digging. It’s about formation—how God meets us in memory, exposes what’s been quietly directing us, and brings freedom that doesn’t require effort or management.

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184 | MELT, Memory and Meaning

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Steve and Mary reflect on the importance of submitting to the Spirit’s work in your own life so you can more faithfully love and help others. The oxygen mask illustration still applies.

Today’s episode focuses primarily on Memory—the M in MELT. We emphasize memory because biblical transformation doesn’t happen by correcting ideas, but by returning to the moments where core beliefs were formed. In MELT terms, memory grounds us in the moment, emotion keeps us connected to it, Lies reveal what the heart concluded there, and Truth brings transformation when God meets us in that place.

As Steve shares—and Mary affirms—our understanding has deepened over the years. We consistently see greater transformation when facilitators help people stay with the specific details of their places of pain.

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183 | Grief ~ Gratitude ~ Migraine Miracle

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0600

This episode offers another glimpse into the heart of our training community. You’ll hear from Susan Hulet, founder of Mercy House, as she shares a deeply significant moment with Jesus while MELTing through the tragic loss of her father more than 50 years ago. She also recalls her first MELT session—an experience that may encourage many who are just beginning their own journey.

You’ll also hear from Terris Tamashiro Harris—author, publisher, Mercy House partner, and long-time CrossCounsel supporter—who reflects on how she has walked out her transformational journey with us. She describes how, more than 15 years ago, she received truth from Jesus that brought an end to her migraines and continues to shape her life.

Throughout the conversation, Chuck Schroeter guides the discussion with thoughtful questions and helpful insights, highlighting how deep transformation can bring healing across many areas of our lives.

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182 | Continue to be Transformed

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Steve and Mary conclude their discussion on the history of CrossCounsel. If you haven’t listened to Episode 181, we encourage you to start there—it sets the stage for everything they cover here. They highlight how easily we make excuses when life doesn’t go our way and how quickly that can distort our understanding of God’s character. They share how, even as CrossCounsel has remained anchored to its core principles, modern advances in neuroscience and psychology have continued to validate the importance of addressing core memories and trauma.

They reiterate that this work is ultimately about our maturity in Christ—cooperating with His Kingdom purposes and living out the Great Commission. The MELT Process remains a powerful tool to help believers move toward deeper transformation, greater freedom, and a more fully formed walk with Jesus.

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181 | Our Ongoing Origin Story

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Mary Carlton returns to the podcast as we revisit Our Ongoing Origin Story—the foundations of what makes CrossCounsel different. We share how our separate journeys led us into this ministry approach and how it transformed everything for us—and for those we serve. Together, we explore the authority of Scripture, the true meaning of transformation, and how The MELT Process helps uncover the protective layers that keep us from freedom. This conversation dives into wisdom, healing, and the gentle but powerful work of God in restoring our hearts.

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180 | Have You Heard of Plato, Aristotle… Sōma?

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0600

You’ve heard of Plato and Aristotle—two philosophers who shaped how we think about truth, reality, and the soul. But Scripture offers something richer: sōma—the whole person, body and spirit, mind and heart, all woven together in transformation.

In this episode, we take a short but meaningful detour into Steve's college days—yes, including that dreaded philosophy class—and connect the dots between ancient thought, modern faith, and what it really means to be continually transformed. From the highchair to the table, from theory to truth lived out—this is where information becomes formation.

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179 | In Which Chair Are You Sitting?

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

While visiting Seacoast Grace Church in Cypress, California, Steve sat in on a message from Lead Pastor Cody Surratt that caught him off guard—in the best way.

What began as a simple object lesson with a kitchen table, a high chair, a bench, and a few family seats became a vivid picture of spiritual growth. Cody’s illustration echoed the very heartbeat of CrossCounsel: that following Jesus isn’t about managing behavior or staying inspired—it’s about maturing, being transformed, and learning to take responsibility for our faith.

In this episode, Steve shares key parts of Cody’s message and reflects on how it aligns with the MELT process and the journey from emotional infancy to spiritual maturity. It’s an invitation to pause and ask: In which chair are you sitting?

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178 | Conclusion: From Striving & Suicidal to Hopeful & Helping

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

A late-night call, one of Hannah's brothers in crisis, and a heart heavy with guilt—Hannah’s story could have stayed there. But later, God used the quiet image of a monarch chrysalis as a crucial part of seeing both transformation and dying—something He was also working within her. Through the MELT Process, Hannah came to see how long she’d been trying to carry and control what was never hers to hold.

That journey brought her back to an early memory of her own baptism—once marked by loss and disappointment—and transformed it into joy and freedom. Now, watching baptisms fills her with gratitude instead of grief. This episode captures that movement from heaviness to lightness, from guilt to grace, and from trying to save others to trusting the One who truly can.

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177 | From Striving & Suicidal to Hopeful & Helping

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this moving conversation, Hannah shares how her life shifted from striving—not only as a high-level student-athlete, but in nearly every area of her life. When she first walked through the doors at CrossCounsel, she was battling suicidal thoughts. Since then, her journey has been nothing short of remarkable—moving from despair to living hopeful and helping others find freedom. Her story is honest, raw, and full of grace—a reminder that God meets us in our brokenness and begins rewriting the story from there.

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176 | Truth Independent of Reactions w/ Shane Buol > Why Offense Doesn’t Define Reality

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In a world where disagreement is often labeled as hatred and offense is treated as evidence of harm, Steve Freitag and Shane Buol explore how the MELT Process offers a radically different path. When emotions flare in response to truth—whether from Scripture, a friend, or a news headline—those reactions reveal more about our hearts than about reality itself. Through transformation, God refines not only what we believe in our heads but what we know in our hearts. The goal isn’t to silence emotion—it’s to let it guide us toward the root of our pain and into alignment with truth that stands independent of reactions.

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175 | Unscripted Testimonies: Behind the Scenes of a Monday Night

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, you’ll hear firsthand stories of how the Lord has been at work—taken directly from a weekly Zoom gathering. You’ll also hear Mary’s heart and her unwavering commitment to ensuring that when people receive truth, it is genuine and authentic.

We believe you’ll be encouraged and stirred to press in more deeply to what God wants to do in your own life.

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174 | O Death, Where Is Thy Sting?

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the CrossCounsel Podcast, we sit down with Byron Guerra, youth pastor at Thirst Church (https://www.thirstchurch.org) in Oconomowoc, WI, and his longtime friend, mentor, and CrossCounsel facilitator, Chuck Schroeter.

Byron didn’t begin in ministry — his early years were spent as a land surveyor and doing tree work. The conversation kicks off with a funny, forgotten story from Chuck, and a powerful moment where he shares how Byron’s grandfather led him to Christ.

A few months ago, Chuck encouraged Byron to step into The MELT Process, which became a turning point in facing deep pain — including the tragic loss his family endured in 2008. As the conversation unfolds, you’ll hear how God cleared the clutter and began reshaping Byron’s heart.

One quote from Byron says it all: “God is writing a new narrative for my heart.”

Chuck wraps the episode with a strong challenge about what real freedom looks like, and Byron shares how he’s helping his family, church, and youth group pursue a deeper life with Jesus.

A conversation full of honest moments, deep insights, and real hope.

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173 | Hillary's Anger Breakthrough

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we dive into what AJ & Hillary have been learning, especially an eye-opening anger exercise that led to real freedom. We don’t just tell people to “let go of anger.” Instead, we explore why we hold onto it in the first place. Many believe anger protects them or gives them control, but true transformation happens when we replace false beliefs with God’s truth.

Anger may drive action, but love sustains and transforms. Even Jesus, when confronting injustice, was motivated by love—not personal offense. As we unpack AJ & Hillary’s homework, we’ll explore how releasing anger isn’t about excusing harm but about breaking free from its grip. Join us as we challenge common misconceptions and embrace the power of love over anger!

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172 | What Am I Hiding Behind?

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Episode 172 begs the question, are we truly being transformed, or just wearing the costume of faith? In this episode, we explore the danger of spiritual performance—appearing strong while hiding deep brokenness. AJ and Hillary share their journey through The MELT Process, revealing how unresolved pain once fueled their need for approval but is now an invitation into real freedom. We also discuss the deeper healing work after Madison’s tragedy and invite you to partner with us through the 100 Club, sustaining this mission of true transformation. Let’s step into something real—together!

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171 | Can We See MELT in the Scriptures?

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0600

On this podcast, Steve and Hillary finish up their long discussion exploring biblical stories that indirectly reflect the principles of the MELT Process. We’ll look at the bleeding woman in Mark 5, who was told she was unclean and how that label shaped her identity until she encountered Jesus. We’ll consider the story often called The Prodigal Son, though it could be better named The Compassionate Father, highlighting the deep transformation that comes through being truly seen and embraced. Saul’s radical encounter on the road to Damascus challenges us to examine our own moments of revelation and change. Finally, we’ll reflect on Psalm 139, where David prays, "Search me, O God," a cry for deep healing and transformation. Through these stories, we’ll see how personal reflection, emotional honesty, and God's truth intersect—often in ways we don’t expect.

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170 | Knowing Jesus Has You in Mind

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Hi everyone, and welcome! In this podcast, we’re joined by Justine Roberts.

This recording follows a recent session she had with Steve, where they ran out of time before fully resolving a particular memory. In the days that followed, Justine took time to sit with the unresolved part, creating space to explore the barriers that still needed to be confronted. In that moment, Jesus met her with a beautiful word and picture—one that continues to work its way through her heart and mind.

This is so important because we don’t want people to become dependent on us to facilitate every encounter with Jesus. Instead, we want to equip them to face the dark places where only the Lord can bring His transformational, experiential truth.

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169 | Two Special Women with Jesus

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Hi Everyone!

On this episode, Steve and Hillary explore how Jesus broke societal norms in His transformative encounters with two women: the Samaritan woman at the well and the woman caught in adultery.

They discuss how Jesus, by engaging with the Samaritan woman, defies cultural barriers, offering her living water and revealing profound truths about identity and faith. Steve and Hillary emphasize that His experiential truth, wrapped in love, creates a space for genuine transformation when we’re ready to receive it.

Shifting to the woman caught in adultery, they highlight how Jesus challenges the accusers and extends grace, showing that love and forgiveness are powerful catalysts for change.

Join them for a deep dive into these stories, reflecting on how Jesus’ radical approach to love and acceptance continues to invite us into a transformative relationship with Him. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that reminds us of the life-changing power of grace!

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168 | Scripture and F-35s

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Hi Everyone,

This episode kicks off with some light banter between Steve and Hillary, including his morning at Truax Field in Madison, home of the F-35. It's a cutting-edge, stealthy multirole fighter with advanced avionics and supersonic speed, capable of air-to-air, air-to-ground, and intelligence missions—a game-changer for modern air forces. But that’s not why you tuned in...

We dive into how the MELT Process aligns with Scripture, even if not explicitly stated. We also tackle big questions like, “Why did God let this happen?” and offer encouragement to grow in your relationship with God, shifting how those questions are understood as we experience His goodness in a broken world.

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167 | Our Soul's Soundtracks

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Hello Everyone!

Music has touched all of our lives in ways we may not even realize. In this episode, Steve is joined by guests Jenni Freitag, Shane Buol, and Jason Hoffman—three talented musicians with a deep commitment to the truth and beauty of the MELT Process. Together, they explore how music can be a powerful tool for transformation, discovering in real time how the Lord can use it to deepen our healing and lead us closer to Jesus.

Join the conversation and find new insights into how music can shape not only their lives but all of ours on the journey to greater transformation.

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166 | WITH Jesus Everyday

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600

Hi Everybody. This episode features the return of Mary Carlton for a special appearance. The topic was inspired by Mary's words soon after the school shooting in Madison. As simplistic as it may sound, we truly believe that the inner turmoil that we feel from both historical wounding and present day pain can be authentically and genuinely address by posturing our hearts to receive experiential Truth from Jesus.

Everyone listening has undoubtedly heard Jesus' promise to never leave us or forsake us. He told us that He would be with us "to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). It’s one thing to hold that truth in our minds, but it’s another to deeply believe it in our hearts. We hope this discussion encourages you to take whatever steps necessary to experience the reality of Him being WITH us.

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165 | School Shooting / Declaration of Hope

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0600

We’re coming to you today with heavy hearts in light of the recent tragedies in Madison, Wisconsin, and the heartbreaking school shooting that occurred on Monday, December 16. These events have shaken our community and reminded us, once again, of the brokenness in the world.

As we head into 2025, we’re creating and building the 100 Club—a community of partners giving $100 monthly to support CrossCounsel’s mission. Whether you’re a new supporter or already give monthly, consider joining this effort or increasing your support to at least $100 per month.

It will be stewarded well and will make a lasting difference.

Sign up for monthly giving today at https://www.crosscounsel.com/
"How to Heal" page: https://www.crosscounsel.com/how-to-heal
Donate and Becoming a Financial Partner: https://www.crosscounsel.com/donate

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164 | Love Bonds and Fear Bonds

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 17:00:00 -0600

Our discussion on this episode gets into an unexpected and very brief overview of Love Bonds and Fear Bonds from the book Living from the Heart Jesus Gave You.

In summary, love bonds are secure connections built on mutual care, trust, and the ability to return to joy together, fostering healthy relationships.

In contrast, fear bonds are formed out of control, obligation, or avoidance of pain, often leading to dysfunction and disconnection.

For more detailed information, we direct you back to the book Living from the Heart that Jesus gave you.

We hope this episode highlights a key point: our work is not traditional counseling or advice-giving, nor is it what most imagine when they think of prayer. It requires intentionality and, at times, difficult choices from those who engage with it. At CrossCounsel, we remain grounded in Christ and led by the Holy Spirit, drawing carefully from approaches aligned with the heart of our heavenly Father—so that we may grow into the fullness of the stature of Christ.

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163 | Don't Let a Diagnosis Identify You

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Hello Everyone,

In this episode, we dive into a powerful conversation. Hillary shares her inspiring journey through the MELT Process, highlighting how she's overcome symptoms of ADHD and the profound impact it has had on her life. She discusses how AJ's observations have helped her recognize the shifts in her thinking and behavior through the power of the Holy Spirit's work.

Steve also weighs in on the importance of staying with the process that only works due to God's design of our hearts and minds. He discusses how revisiting links between past memories and uncovering the origin of lie-based thinking can open the door to genuine transformation. MELT helps get us to the places where we invite Jesus to save us from our twisted thinking, rather than relying on our own understanding and knowledge.

Please know that CrossCounsel does not diagnose conditions or offer any recommendations regarding medications.

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162 | Loving God Wholeheartedly

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Hello Everyone!

We were originally going to call this episode, "Ope! Throw another shrimp on the barbie!" That was to be a tongue-in-cheek tip of the cap to us Midwesterners and to Australians who may be listening.

However, this conversation with Chuck (our Wisconsin rep) and Kylie (originally from the land Down Under), goes deep into their journey of loving God wholeheartedly through the grace and goodness of our Heavenly Father.

Enjoy, be encouraged and pass this on those those who may be blessed by it!

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161 | Half Measures

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600

Hello Everyone,

We jump right into a discussion on how we hope that after some time with us, they can start MELTing without us.

We discuss recognizing that many things we do to find peace are often only half measures, bringing temporary relief.

Ugh, we're not unlike the Israelites of old, those our idols may be more sophisticated than theirs. Still, they fall short.

We wrap up talking about how we gravitate toward others, often public figures, to try to make some sense of the voids we feel in our hearts.

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160 | Avoid Disillusionment

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Hello Everyone,

On this episode, we discuss how important it is to face what needs to be faced in our lives.

We talk about how the subconscious tries to trick us into believing that we're doing better than we really are.

We talk about how walking to the edge of the cliff staring down and is not enough to find truth and freedom.

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159 | Weeding Out More Lies

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Hello Everyone,

On this episode, Shane Buol returns! The "No Need for Weed" (Ep. 155), podcast he first appeared on resonated with many people.

We talked about his deeper reflections from that first podcast.
We talked about this as an ongoing process as he grows and matures in Jesus.
We discussed how others in the CrossCounsel community are connecting with one another to sling more freedom in God's Kingdom - and much more!

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158 | Boy MELTs, Meets Girl (Part 2)

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0500

This podcast moves forward into the second half of “Boy MELTs, Meets Girl.”

Part 2 picks up with Steve talking about how he dealt with certain issues as a dad with their kids.
We talked about AJs adjustment from home school to life as an 8th grader.
We talked more about Hillary being married to a guy who has a grip on healthy emotions.
You’ll hear about the adventure of AJ bringing Hillary home for the first time and how it almost killed him and how he doesn’t want to be held to things he said while under the influence of prescription medication.
Hillary shares why she broke down and cried after her first Thanksgiving with AJs family.

Enjoy!

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157 | Boy MELTs, Meets Girl (Part 1)

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0500

Hi Everyone!

On this podcast you are introduced to AJ & Hillary Freitag. AJ's parents were introduced to principles much like we use in our MELT Process. What the Lord is doing in AJ is just what Hillary hoped and prayed for in a husband. Now they are walking their lives out with Jesus being central to everything in their lives. It's a fun listen!

Also, if you are in the Madison area, please consider joining us for our Chili Cook Off Fundraiser. You can scroll down and get more info on our EVENTS page.

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156 | Peek Into Our Staff Meeting: Malaysia Report

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Hi Friends! As we return to our regularly scheduled podcast, we give you a glimpse into our staff meeting where we heard from our staff who traveled to Malaysia. So download this download of great info. We also have a sad update regarding how we've had to pivot with a key staff position.

You can also check out our fall class offering for our Level One class that has been helpful for so many.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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155 | No Need for Weed

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode, Steve sits down with Shane Buol. Shane gave an excellent testimony at our annual Golf Event. You'll hear his testimony from June. Then he and Steve get into a great conversation about the freedom and maturity that Shane has experienced. If you, or anyone you know, struggles with addiction, this is a must listen and one to pass along!

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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154 | Inside Out 2: Group Discussion

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve chat with Jenni, Brynn and Lucy about the family movie "Inside Out 2" and the lessons it teaches about feelings.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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153 | Thoughts About Feelings

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve chat with Jenni, Brynn and Lucy about the 2015 family movie "Inside Out" and the lessons it teaches about feelings.

A few of the topics covered:

0:30 - Meet the panel;
7:15 - Movies speak to us
9:50 - which emotion do you relate to;
22:00 - Bing bong;
33:00 - The difference.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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152 | Consider It All Joy

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve talk about the nature of joy, and how it differs from happiness. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics covered:

5:45 - Looking for verifiable evidence;
10:45 - Knowing the "right words";
15:10 - The woman at the well;
18:57 - Consider it all joy;
21:45 - Happiness versus joy.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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151 | In the In Between

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve talk about what can be done in the time between sessions, and bring up 3 ways you can prepare for your next session with CrossCounsel.

A few of the topics covered:

6:30 - Tuned in to the pain;
8:48 - What to do in between sessions;
13:05 - Social anxiety;
24:13 - Jon's experience.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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150 | A Reminder for Times Like This

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve talk about the events of July 13th, and the importance of forgiveness.

A few of the topics covered:

0:30 - Witty banter and upcoming events;
10:05 - A quick word from Steve;
12:45 - What are we looking for from our leaders;
16:10 - an example of forgiveness;
24:25 - Addressing underlying currents.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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149 | The Truth Within the Story (Part 2)

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we finish out interview with Terry Harris, discussing her experience with CrossCounsel, and how that experience influenced one of her novels. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics covered:

0:30 - Conversation continues;
8:25 - What are the takeaways;
11:20 - Fictional characters, real resources.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

You can contact Terry directly at terrytamashiroharris.com

You can also purchase Terry's book, " Love Remains: A Mercy House Novel"
on Amazon.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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148 | The Truth Within the Story (Part 1)

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Terry Harris to talk about her experience with CrossCounsel, and how that experience influenced one of her novels. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics covered:

1:00 - Introducing Terry;
9:55 - Sharing through characters;
12:00 - Love Remains.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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147 | Healing Around the World

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0500

CrossCounsel is privileged to bring Training and Ministry in the MELT process to Pastors and leaders in India! Today we will be talking to Sheila who, along with her husband Abraham, have a major influence in the churches in India. Mary and Carol are training a team of ministers who will join them at the ASIA Summit in Malaysia in August.

A few of the topics covered:

3:25 - Similarities between India and Malaysia;
7:55 - Why India needs this ministry;
17:45 - Everything is explainable, but not everything is excusable.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

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Ep. 146 - Removing Obstacles to Identity (Part 3)

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve finish their discussion with Mary & John Henry, talking about their experience with CrossCounsel, college ministry, and the importance of identity. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics covered:

0:50 - Some questions from Steve;
6:00 - Young adults leaving the church;
9:50 - The fear of the Lord;
15:08 - How to help.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 145 - Removing Obstacles to Identity (Part 2)

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve continue their discussion with Mary & John Henry, talking about their experience with CrossCounsel, college ministry, and the importance of identity. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics covered:

0:40 - Conversation continues;
2:40 - It's about your story;
5:20 - College ministry;
11:40 - New starting points;
15:45 - Seeds of cultural change;
19:00 - Changing methods for changing times.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 144 - Removing Obstacles to Identity (Part 1)

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve sit down with Mary & John Henry and talk about their experience with CrossCounsel, college ministry, and the importance of identity. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics covered:

1:40 - Introducing our guests;
3:00 - Jon's many nicknames;
5:50 - Discussion starts;
15:45 - Mary's experience with our online classes.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 143 - How Do We Actually Change? (Part 2)

Tue, 28 May 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon finish their interview with Pastor Pher from First Free Church.

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Pher cover:

0:48 - Discussion continues;
11:11 - Welcome home;
14:50 - Moses;
25:00 - Giving it to God.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 142 - How Do We Actually Change? (Part 1)

Mon, 20 May 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon interview Pastor Pher from First Free Church, and learn about his journey with CrossCounsel.

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Pher cover:

3:40 - Discussion begins;
10:00 - Opportunity for growth;
21:25 - Jon's thoughts.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 141 - Finding Home

Mon, 13 May 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jenni visit Jon for a live recording, and talk about the importance of finding your way home.

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Jenni cover:

5:30 - Discussion begins;
9:45 - Jon geeks out;
16:00 - A community of healing.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 140 - Tackling Trauma (Part 5 - Finale)

Mon, 06 May 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon finish their discussion about trauma, and it's many facets.

A few of the topics Steve & Jon cover:

5:50 - Discussion continues;
11:50 - Spilled milk;
23:10 - Final thoughts.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 139 - Tackling Trauma (Part 4)

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon continue their discussion about something that all of us have experienced: trauma. What is it? How do we start to handle it? Tune in and find out!

A few of the topics Steve & Jon cover:

1:00 - Discussion continues;
12:00 - The depth of pain;
18:45 - Interpreting life through the lens of truth.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 138 - Tackling Trauma (Part 3)

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon continue their discussion about something that all of us have experienced: trauma. What is it? How do we start to handle it? Tune in and find out!

A few of the topics Steve & Jon cover:

7:55 - Discussion continues;
10:00 - "Was Jesus traumatized?";
13:50 - When to confront someone.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 137 - Tackling Trauma (Part 2)

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon continue their discussion about something that all of us have experienced: trauma. What is it? How do we start to handle it? Tune in and find out!

A few of the topics Steve & Jon cover:

5:20 - The dollar bill illustration;
10:30 - "I have trauma";
16:00 - The ingredients of hope.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 136 - Tackling Trauma (Part 1)

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon begin a long discussion about something that all of us have experienced: trauma. What is it? How do we start to handle it? Tune in and find out!

A few of the topics Steve & Jon cover:

8:40 - Start of the conversation;
13:15 - "Shell Shocked";
16:40 - A working definition.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 135 - Facebook and Feelings (Part 2)

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon continue their discussion with the one and only Dwight Clough and talk about how a Facebook post lead to a discussion about emotional healing, and revering Jesus over scripture. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Steve, Jon & Dwight cover:

2:30 - Being Mr. Spock;
8:10 - The heart is deceitful above all things;
15:45 - Emotional faith;
20:00 - Quoting the Bible without verses;
24:20 - Taking inventory.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 134 - Facebook and Feelings (Part 1)

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon sit down with the one and only Dwight Clough and talk about how a Facebook post lead to a discussion about emotional healing, and revering Jesus over scripture. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Steve, Jon & Dwight cover:

3:33 - Dwight's Background;
9:15 - The Facebook post;
18:50 - Jesus over scripture;
25:20 - Emotion over scripture.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 133 - Hippies, Haircuts, and the Holy Spirit (Part 2)

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon finish their discussion with Kenton and his incredible testimony, and look at the meaning of the Greek word "Ecclasia".

A few of the topics Steve, Jon & Kenton cover:

0:28 - A quick word from Steve;
1:55 - Imputed righteousness;
9:00 - "What is missing in the gospel today?";
15:55 - Ecclesia.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 132 - Hippies, Haircuts, and the Holy Spirit (Part 1)

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon bring on a special guest to talk about his testimony, and how CrossCounsel helped change his life.

A few of the topics Steve, Jon & Kenton cover:

2:45 - What is Kenton's world like today;
6:15 - Life before Jesus;
26:00 - The fear of being alone.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 131 - An Uncommon Message - Living Water Church (Part 3)

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon continue to watch and discuss testimonies from Living Water Church, including a testimony from one of our students!

A few of the topics Steve & Jon cover:

4:45 - Jason's Testimony;
16:05 - Shane's Testimony;
22:20 - Final thoughts.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 130 - Invest in Yourself - Living Water Church (Part 2)

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0600

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon continue to watch and discuss testimonies from Living Water Church.

A few of the topics Steve & Jon cover:

3:30 - Jacob's Testimony;
18:00 - Mary's Testimony;
32:00 - Lie-based pain and truth-based pain.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 129 - Living Water Church (Part 1)

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve & Jon talk about Steve's trip to Texas, and look at a recent orientation held at Living Water Church, including a powerful testimony of healing. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Jon & Steve cover:

4:20 - Steve is writing a book;
8:10 - A recent orientation;
14:50 - A quick history lesson;
25:30 - A beautiful testimony.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 128 - Food for Thought

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon, Steve & Mary look at an article about stress-eating, and discuss it's underlying causes, and how to better handle them.

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Mary cover:

9:45 - An interesting article;
18:30 - Mustard;
20:50 - The strategies of men.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 127 - Are You an Imposter?

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon, Steve & Mary talk about the all-too-common fear of being found out, and being found lacking. How do these thoughts and feelings affect us? How do we push back against them? Tune in to find out!

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Mary cover:

4:00 - Imposter Syndrome;
10:30 - "Do I have what it takes?";
15:50 - The cycle of lies.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 126 - Struggling With Singleness

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon, Steve & Mary talk about how being single can sometimes be a struggle, and how we can learn to be more patient and more trusting in God as He refines us in the meantime.

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Mary cover:

3:00 - Struggling with singleness;
10:50 - A God-shaped hole;
18:40 - Letting God refine us.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 125 - Being a Friend of God

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon, Steve & Mary talk about CrossCounsel's 2024 Class, and what it means to become a friend of God.

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Mary cover:

6:50 - A friend of God;
13:55 - Watching the MELT process;
23:00 - Millennials.

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Ep. 124 - The Sting of Betrayal (Part 2)

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon, Steve & Wes finish their discussion about the pain of betrayal, and how it affects all of us.

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Wes cover:

4:50 - Blaming God;
9:50 - A sense of entitlement;
16:30 - Forgiveness & reconciliation.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 123 - The Sting of Betrayal (Part 1)

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon, Steve & Wes talk about the pain of betrayal, and how it affects all of us.

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Wes cover:

5:55 - "Feeling betrayed";
8:00 - Betrayal and business;
13:30 - "What kind of follower of Jesus do you want to be?";
21:50 - Rehashing facts.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 122 - New Year, New Questions

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Happy New Year, friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we go through a few announcements for January, and get to know Steve and Mary a little more through a game called "Five of Fifty". You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Steve, Jon, Mary & Wes cover:

5:30 - Announcements;
11:50 - Five of Fifty!

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 121 - Holiday Blues

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve sit down with Wes and Mary Carlton and talk about some of the negative emotions people often feel around the holidays.

A few of the topics Steve, Jon, Mary & Wes cover:

3:45 - Announcements;
9:30 - Holidays and family losses;
18:45 - Our minds work by associations;
32:35 - Merry Christmas!

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 120 - When Words Cut Like Knives

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve discuss the damaging effects of verbal abuse, how it spreads, and how we minister to people who suffer from this all-too-common toxicity.

A few of the topics Mary, Steve & Jon cover:

6:20 - Defining verbal abuse;
15:15 - "Why can't you be more like your brother?";
23:38 - Looking back as parents.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 119 - Concerning Spiritual Warfare

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

We have something very special we would like to share with you: Our very first podcast episode... with video! Check it out using the YouTube link below.

To celebrate this big step for the podcast, we're dropping a big episode talking about a big topic: spiritual warfare. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Mary, Steve & Jon cover:

3:45 - Announcements;
10:12 - Our thoughts on spiritual warfare
28:45 - Imaginary friends;
38:10 - Ephesians 6:10;
47:15 - A quote from Dr. Ed Smith.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 118 - Distortion, Abuse, And Being Unforgiving - Best of 2022

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0600

All of us here at CrossCounsel wish you a happy Thanksgiving!

Since we were all off celebrating Thanksgiving with our families, we're running one of our favorite podcast episodes from last year, where we answered questions directly from you all.

A few of the topics Steve, & Mary cover:

2:00 - Distorted memories
18:00 - Unpacking emotional abuse
23:30 - "You're not forgiving enough"

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 117 - God Hates What Leads to Divorce (Part 2)

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 19:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary, Steve and Jon continue to discuss the devastating impact of divorce, and how we handle the resulting wounds.

A few of the topics Mary, Steve and Jon cover:

1:28 - Crash test dummies;
11:05 - "Helicopter parents";
21:06 - A very prevailing thought.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 116 - God Hates What Leads to Divorce (Part 1)

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary, Steve and Jon talk about the devastating impact of divorce, and how we handle the resulting wounds.

A few of the topics Mary, Steve and Jon cover:

11:40 - How we handle divorce;
21:00 - Experiencing push-back;
26:00 - Leave if you are in danger.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 115 - We Do Things Differently

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon talk about one of CrossCounsel's big goals for the year, look at a powerful testimony, and discuss how CrossCounsel does things differently than traditional therapy.

A few of the topics Steve and Jon cover:

3:30 - Our big goal;
10:28 - "I'm glad I went through with that";
19:40 - A testimony;
27:45 - We do things differently.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 114 - MELTing in Bolivia

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon chat with Mary and Wes Carlton about their recent trip doing hands on ministry in Bolivia, and CrossCounsel's relationship with House of Hope International. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

2:35 - What brought CrossCounsel to Bolivia;
17:40 - The ministry of work and play;
38:15 - What we do cuts across all cultures.

If you have questions about our ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 113 - How We Collide With Our Pride (Part 2)

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon continue their discussion about what it means to be prideful, and how pride gets in the way of healing.

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

2:55 - A thank-you letter;
9:40 - Pride and blaming others;
11:50 - Pride causing divides;
24:50 - Some thoughts on the Middle East.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 112 - How We Collide With Our Pride (Part 1)

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon talk about what it means to be prideful, and how pride gets in the way of healing.

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

1:55 - A testimony from a fan;
13:00 - Defining pride;
18:00 - How pride is a product of fear.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 111 - Is He Really Coming Back? (Part 2)

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon continue to talk about how many Christians say they are just waiting around for Jesus to return, and some of the true feelings behind that phrase.

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

2:40 - A lens of hopelessness;
9:30 - "Do Something";
17:00 - Hacksaw Ridge;
22:20 - A spirit of suspicion.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 110 - Is He Really Coming Back? (Part 1)

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon talk talk about how many Christians say they are just waiting around for Jesus to return, and some of the true feelings behind that phrase.

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

8:30 - Just waiting for Jesus;
14:30 - Parables;
19:00 - Workers in the field;
25:00 - Fear of the world.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 109 - A World of Frustration

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon talk about our increasingly frustrated world, holding grudges and and some of the signs of long-held bitterness.

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

5:50 - An epidemic of frustration;
12:50 - New eyes of compassion;
23:30 - Numbing out/asking why.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

To make a donation, go to crosscounsel.com.

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Ep. 108 - Flipping Switches

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon talk about the rising topic of narcissism, it's effects on our lives and relationships, and how the MELT process can help cut through the noise.

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

6:00 - Looking at narcissism;
15:30 - Ineffective boundaries;
20:40 - The power of perception;
29:30 - Car engines and the MELT process.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 107 - “That’s as Far as I Can Go, Lord.”

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, and Jon sit down in the new La Crosse office with Carol Mitzelfeldt and talk about how she first found out about CrossCounsel, and how it has changed her life.

A few of the topics Steve, Jon & Carol cover:

4:40 - Carol and Theophostics;
11:00 - Proverbs 4;
18:15 - "That's as far as I can go, Lord";
24:30 - Changes in relationships.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 106 - Are You Giving Ground to the Enemy?

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 12:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, and Jon sit down with Lucy Galvez and talk about how CrossCounsel has helped her find real and lasting peace.

A few of the topics Steve, Jon & Lucy cover:

12:00 - Coping mechanisms vs lasting peace;
19:30 - "How much ground would you like the enemy to have in your life?";
24:15 - God's grace is sufficient for us;
31:15 - Lucy's journal.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 105 - Don’t Mistake Work for Worth (Part 2)

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon continue their discussion about things that provide us with a false sense of value, and how to re-focus on the things that are truly valuable.

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

2:00 - Good things getting in the way of the best things;
11:09 - Ministering to ministers;
14:45 - Old wounds;
19:30 - Storing up treasures in heaven.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 104 - Don’t Mistake Work for Worth (Part 1)

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon talk about the various things that provide us with a false sense of value, and how to re-focus on the things that are truly valuable.

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

6:45 - Cruises, Jello, and idols;
15:00 - "Suffering is part of my identity";
20:30 - Heart motivations;
23:55 - Titles as values.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 103 - Suffering: Unpacking 1 Peter 4 (Part 2)

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon continue their discussion on the nature of suffering as a Christian, and unpacking the meaning behind
1 Peter 4:1; “Whoever suffers in the body is done with sin."

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Jon cover:

4:00 - People can feel your love;
6:30 - “Go and sin no more”;
14:30 - A question about Christ's afflictions;
19:30 - Strenuously contending.

If you have questions about the ministry, want to know how to donate, or want to schedule a ministry session, please go to crosscounsel.com for more details

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 102 - Suffering: Unpacking 1 Peter 4 (Part 1)

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon talk about the nature of suffering as a christian, and unpack the meaning behind 1 Peter 4: "whoever suffers in the body is done with sin."

A few of the topics Steve, Dwight & Jon cover:

1:00 - Love for all our students!
6:00 - "Everything is connected to everything"
18:00 - Don't discount your pain
22:00 - Suffering, wrapped in wrong thinking

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 101 - Fully Armed and Operational

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon sit down with long time friend and guest star Dwight Clough to talk about his newest book! Join us as we talk about how his experiences with CrossCounsel not only shaped his book, but his family as well. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Steve, Dwight & Jon cover:

8:20 - Armed and fully operational children
11:00 - How would your book be different without the MELT process?
18:10 - The importance of mentors
22:45 - What is different about this book?
33:15 - church refugees

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 100 - Why Is Pain Important?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we sit down with special guest Wes Carlton and talk about his experience with CrossCounsel, and how he received freedom from negative emotions, and experienced lasting peace!

A few of the topics Steve, Wes & Jon cover:

9:30 - Jon and Steve talk about their favorite parts of the conversation
14:00 - We don't teach you to cope
19:00 - What we do differently
28:00 - Getting tough enough to get close to God

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 99 - Stop Getting Flat Tires And Trying So Hard

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

A few of the topics Steve, Wes & Jon cover:

4:30 - A look back at the 12th Annual Golf Classic
10:00 - "Instead of someone talking with you, the Lord talks TO you.
13:00 - an example of "almost truth"
20:00 - Virus removal of the soul

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 98 - MELT or Medication?

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, We tackle another question we received at our orientation event at SomaChurch in Tyler, Texas! Join Mary and Steve as they start to answer questions from the community, and clarify what exactly it is we do here at CrossCounsel.

A few of the topics Steve, & Mary cover:

3:30 - Medication shouldn't be the first solution
15:00 - Chemically manipulating emotions
22:00 - Being at peace vs being numb

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 97 - Testing, Healing, and Ministering to Non-Believers

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, We start to tackle the MANY questions we received at our orientation event at SomaChurch in Tyler, Texas! Join Mary and Steve as they start to answer questions from the community, and clarify what exactly it is we do here at CrossCounsel.

A few of the topics Steve, & Mary cover:

7:00 - What if the pain persists?
16:00 - "Applying the teaching"
19:00 - "Would you use the MELT process with non-believers?"

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 96 - Looking Back At The Next Generation

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon look back at a particularly special episode where we interviewed Hillary Freitag and talked about how to reach out to today's teenagers.

A couple of the topics covered:

Sleeping Beauty
Reaching out to Gen Z
Panic attacks

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 95 - What You Don't Want To Recycle

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon look back at another early episode that kicked off our show.

A couple of the topics covered:

An inspiring session
The heart of God vs. the mind of God
Why is it tough for men to dig into CrossCounsel?

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

Just click on the link where you listen to podcasts the most and don't forget to review and subscribe:

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Ep. 94 - Transformation Vs. Information

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon look back at the VERY FIRST episode that kicked off our show. Join us as Steve talks about where the ministry was back then, and where we are now.

A couple of the topics covered:

The state of CrossCounsel when the first podcast episode premiered
It's not "go get em, tiger!"

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 93 - What Are Protective Defenses? (Part 3)

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Mary continue to discuss the topic of Protective Defenses, and examine what can be done to deal with these common barriers.

A couple of the topics covered:

Golf Classic!
Marriage problems
The snake story

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 92 - What Are Protective Defenses? (Part 2)

Mon, 29 May 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Mary continue to discuss the topic of Protective Defenses, and examine what can be done to deal with these common barriers.

A couple of the topics covered:

RIP Lemon Tree
"If I go back there, I'll get stuck"
Understating our pain

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 91 - What Are Protective Defenses? (Part 1)

Mon, 22 May 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Mary begin to discuss the topic of Protective Defenses, and examine what can be done to deal with these common barriers.

A couple of the topics covered:

RIP Cool Beans
Defining Protective Defenses
Examples of Protective Defenses

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

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Ep. 90 - Does God Help Those Who Help Themselves?

Mon, 15 May 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon talk about the oft quoted phrase “God helps those who help themselves” and examine the deeper issues with that surprisingly common saying.

A couple of the topics covered:

The Lord Of The Rings
The importance of action
Un-Biblical vs A-Biblical

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 89 - Is God On My Side?

Mon, 08 May 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon talk about asking not if God is on our side, but rather, are we on His side?

A couple of the topics covered:

Chickens and rice
Kings consulted God
Going to God brings the best results

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 88 - Does My Pastor Need Healing, Too? (Part 3)

Mon, 01 May 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon continue interviewing pastors close to the CrossCounsel family. This week, our special guest is Melissa Herring from SomaChurch in Tyler, Texas!

A couple of the topics covered:

How Melissa got started with CrossCounsel
How transformational prayer affected the SomaChurch staff
The Lord's heart for freedom

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 87 - Does My Pastor Need Healing, Too? (Part 2)

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon continue their conversation with Pastor Pher Lois from First Free Church in Wisconsin, talk about his journey with CrossCounsel, and discuss how pastors need healing as much as anyone else.

A couple of the topics covered:

“you're mine”
Gen Z and Platitudes
Where the water is

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 86 - Does My Pastor Need Healing, Too? (Part 1)

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon interview Pastor Pher Lois from First Free Church in Wisconsin, and talk about his journey with CrossCounsel, and how pastors need healing as much as anyone else.

A couple of the topics covered:

Becoming a dad
Hidden anger
A memory from childhood

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 85 - Am I Carl? (Part 2)

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon take a look at at an excerpt from Ed Smith's new book, and discuss how much it relates to many of us in our own lives.

A couple of the topics covered:

How to grow relationships
The problem with the “expedience” mindset
God's emotions
Working with desperate people

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 84 - Am I Carl? (Part 1)

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve, Mary and Jon take a look at at an excerpt from Ed Smith's new book, and discuss how much it relates to many of us in our own lives.

A couple of the topics covered:

“Christian Eeyore”
Settling for less than what God wants for us
A man named Carl

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

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Ep. 83 - Experiencing Our Good Father's Embrace

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon take a look at Nate's testimony with CrossCounsel, and talk about the importance of not only knowing our faith, but experiencing it as well.

A couple of the topics covered:

The boys have car troubles
“I'll just take the recipe”
Relationship “trickle-down” effects

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 82 - Growing Despite Adversity

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary, Steve and Jon continue their discussion on what it means to have your faith tested, and what it means to "be of good cheer" in the face of adversity.

A couple of the topics covered:

Unpacking emotions
"I didn't want to know that"
Are you learning what God want's to teach you?

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 81 - "Be Of Good Cheer"

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary, Steve and Jon discuss what it means to have your faith tested, and what it means to "be of good cheer" in the face of adversity.

A couple of the topics covered:

Going to God with our pain
Leaning into the emotions
How to “be of good cheer”

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

Just click on the link where you listen to podcasts the most and don't forget to review and subscribe:

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Ep. 80 - Genuine Confidence

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon take a look at a CrossCounsel testimony, and discuss what it means to find confidence through Christ

A couple of the topics covered:

Mike's success story
Examining anxiety
Remembering what is important

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 79 - Mr. Spock And Church Leadership

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Jon are joined by Jason Hoffman, and talk about church leadership, among other things.

A couple of the topics covered:

Stoicism
CrossCounsel's online classes
The cost of leadership

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 78 - Resisting The Prowling Lion

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve continue their discussion of 1st Peter 5:6-10 and continue talking about what it means to humble ourselves, and to resist the devil.

A couple of the topics covered:

We resist the devil, and GOD restores and strengthens us
Being sober minded
Looking at the world through His eyes

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

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Ep. 77 - Am I The Main Character?

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve look at a passage of scripture, discuss the importance of humility, and talk about how submitting to God drastically affects our walk with Him.

A couple of the topics covered:

“Vending machine prayers”
Humbling yourself
The exaltation of submission

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 76 - What's My Motivation?

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve continue talking about the international ministries CrossCounsel is partnered with, and start a discussion about motivation.

A couple of the topics covered:

Essential oils
“Well done, good and faithful servant”
Conviction vs shame
Parenting

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 75 - Making Your Path Straight

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve talk about international ministry, and trusting the MELT process
A couple of the topics covered:

Cultural differences, and responses to the ministry
“Dying of excess”
Where's Waldo
Being trustworthy

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 74 - Touching On Loneliness

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend,

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve talk about loneliness, and how to address it.

A couple of the topics covered:

Jon talks about the loneliness epidemic among young men
Emotional fragility
The importance of having loving communities

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 73 - Training Up Godly Sticklers

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 12:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve talk about CrossCounsel's online courses and how excited we all are about the opportunities they present!

A couple of the topics covered:

Being passionate vs being diligent
“It's not an information transfer, it's transformation”
Staying focused on Kingdom things

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 72 - The Freitag Family

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon interviews a bunch of Freitags! We are joined by special guests Jenni and Brynn Freitag and learn about how transformational prayer helped them early on in life before CrossCounsel even started!
A couple of the topics covered:

Conflict resolution
Growing up in a Christian home
An update with Brynn

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 71 - Waiting on God vs Inaction

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!
Mary and Steve talk about the things that stop people from coming back for a second session.
A couple of the topics covered:

New Year's Resolutions
Waiting on God vs Inaction

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 70 - What Stops People From Coming Back?

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve talk about the things that stop people from coming back for a second session.
A couple of the topics covered:

Everyone has a different first experience
Healing often comes in layers, not all at once
Jon's experience after his first session

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly. Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 69 - Merry Christmas, and Happier Holidays!

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary, Steve and Jon talk about their experiences around Christmas, and talk about what's really important during this time of year.

A couple of the topics covered:

Jon's experience growing up
The incarnation of Christ
The best gift we can give is obedience to Jesus

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 68 - Why Minister To The Nations?

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 12:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Mary talk about the importance of CrossCounsel's international missions, and the awesome ways they've seen God move through the ministry on a global scale.
A few of the topics Mary & Steve cover:

The importance of international ministry
Bolivia missions trip

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 67 - How Do I Handle Truth-Based Pain?

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Mary go through more community questions sent in by our listeners!

A few of the topics Mary & Steve cover:

Separating truth-based pain, and lie-based pain
Testing what God tells us

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 66 - Layers of Lies

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Steve and Mary go through more community questions sent in by our listeners!

A few of the topics Mary & Steve cover:

Dealing with layers of lies
Testing what God tells us

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 65 - End The Divide

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, We interview Dwight Clough and talk about his new book; End The Divide.

A few of the topics Dwight & Steve cover:

Dwight's new book
Continuous healing
"Making it fair"

If you have questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 64 - Supplementing With Scripture

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve recap our long weekend full of events, and start answering some of the questions sent to us during our La Crosse Orientation event.

A few of the topics Mary & Steve cover:

Weekend event recap!
Who answers us in our prayer?
Supplementing with Scripture

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 63 - Consenting To Feeling Inferior

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve talk about how harsh words can affect us, and how we can deal with them.

A few of the topics Mary & Steve cover:

Barney Fife
What makes us feel inferior?

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 62 - Feeling Our Pain Through Others

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we talk about how busy we have been lately! CrossCounsel has two different events coming up, and we are VERY excited for both!

First, for our Midwestern friends in the La Crosse area, we have an in-person orientation happening on the morning of November 5th. Come join Mary and Steve and learn about what exactly it is we do at CrossCounsel, and ask us questions directly. Please remember to register online at the link below. Space is limited!
Register here for La Crosse Orientation Event

We will also be celebrating a HUGE milestone for CrossCounsel; our 25th Anniversary! Come join us in the Madison area on the night of November 5th as we celebrate 25 years of helping people get free of negative emotions and experience the truth and healing of Jesus, and consider partnering with us as we continue the ministry. It'll be a casual party complete with some speakers, and a chili contest! Please register on the link below if you plan on attending. You won't want to miss it!
Register here for the 25th Anniversary Celebration in Madison

Alright, announcements over. Back to the podcast!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve talk about how we sometimes see ourselves and our pain in the painful experiences of others around us.

A few of the topics Steve & Mary cover:

Chili cook-offs
Helping others as a way of helping ourselves

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 61 - How Should We Handle Suffering?

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we talk about how busy we have been lately! CrossCounsel has two different events coming up, and we are VERY excited for both!

First, for our Midwestern friends in the La Crosse area, we have an an in-person orientation happening on the morning of November 5th. Come join Mary and Steve live and learn about what exactly it is we do at CrossCounsel, and ask us questions directly. Please remember to register online at the link below. Space is limited!
Register here for La Crosse Orientation Event

We will also be celebrating a HUGE milestone for CrossCounsel; our 25th Anniversary! Come join us in the Madison area on the night of November 5th as we celebrate 25 years of helping people get free of negative emotions and experience the truth and healing of Jesus, and consider partnering with us as we continue the ministry. It'll be a casual party complete with some speakers, and most importantly, a chili contest! Please register on the link below if you plan on attending. You won't want to miss it!
Register here for the 25th Anniversary Celebration in Madison

Alright, announcements over. Back to the podcast!

On this episode of the podcast, Mary and Steve talk about their perspectives on how God uses pain and suffering, and that He wants ultimate healing for us.

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Mary cover:

Building character is a painful process
Pushing against closed-mindedness

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 60 - Is God With Me?

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello Friend!
On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve interview Vanessa and learn about her journey with Jesus, and how Crosscounsel fits into it! Vanessa was a great guest and is filled with passion for her walk with Christ. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Vanessa cover:

God does not forget about us
Validation though Christ

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 59 - Fear Of The Lord, Or Terror Of The Lord?

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, Jon and Steve interview CrossCounsel's Office Administrator, Lucy Galvez! Lucy is an integral part of the team and is a huge blessing to all of us here at CrossCounsel. Join us for this special episode where we talk with Lucy and learn about how Jesus has used CrossCounsel's ministry in her own life. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Jon, Steve & Lucy cover:

Pastoral families, and judgemental churches
Experiencing God's love
Opening your hear to God

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 58 - Traditions, and Reconciling Our Own Bad Decisions

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, We tackle another round of community questions! Join Mary and Steve as they start to answer questions from the community, and clarify what exactly it is we do here at CrossCounsel.

A few of the topics Steve, & Mary cover:

Traditional approaches
Reconciling our own bad decisions

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 57 - Shame, Demonic Oppression, and Visualizing

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Dealing with shame
Demonic oppression
Difficulty visualizing

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

Just click on the link where you listen to podcasts the most and don't forget to review and subscribe:

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 56 - Past Trauma, and Brain Trauma

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Is it always my childhood?
Brain injuries
Do we need to access specific memories every time?

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 55 - Dealing With the Past When Its “Under the Blood”

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Past events that are "under the blood"
Steve talks about flippant theology
The armor of God

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 54 - Discerning Spirits, and Unpacking Overwhelming Emotions

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0500

4:45 - Discerning Spirits
14:15 - Jon talks about spiritual gifts
19:00 - Unpacking overwhelming emotions

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 53 - Family, Psychosis, and Being Proactive

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0500

0:30 - Jon is the best grandma ever.
3:30 - Encouraging friends/family to try it out
10:00 - Psychosis

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 52 - Distortion, Abuse, And Being Unforgiving

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0500

2:00 - Distorted memories
18:00 - Unpacking emotional abuse
23:30 - "You're not forgiving enough"

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 51 - MELT or Medication?

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0500

3:30 - Medication shouldn't be the first solution
15:00 - Chemically manipulating emotions
22:00 - Being at peace vs being numb

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 50 - Testing, Healing, and Ministering to Non-Believers

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0500

7:00 - What if the pain persists?
16:00 - "Applying the teaching"
19:00 - "Would you use the MELT process with non-believers?"

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 49 New Update, Not So New Triggers

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 18:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

Recently, Mary and Steve hosted an event at SomaChurch in Tyler, Texas and wow, what a great time it was! We had so many questions at the Q&A that we couldn't get to all of them at the event. So instead, in the coming weeks we will be answering some of those questions here on the podcast! The whole team is very excited to hear from the community and we hope you're excited to have those questions answered.

In other news, we had a fresh podcast ready for you today, but after reviewing it and giving it some thought, we decided it wasn't reflective of the quality we seek to give our listeners. Instead, we went into the archives and decided to replay one of our community's favorite episodes. For those of you who are newer listeners, it gives you a chance to hear the voice of our good friend Sean Sebastian! We know many of you will enjoy heearing his voice again.

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

Just click on the link where you listen to podcasts the most and don't forget to review and subscribe:

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 48 Can I Be Angry At God? (Part 2)

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

Have you ever been angry at God? Have you ever been ashamed about being angry at God? Often times, we believe the way out of this anger is to either confess to God that we are angry (while failing to understand why we feel that way) and ask for that feeling to be taken away, or we ignore the feeling entirely; choosing to bury it deep within ourselves, but never truly resolving it. If you can relate to any of those feelings, than this episode is for you.

Join our hosts as they explore what it means to be angry at God, and more importantly, how you can get lasting freedom from that anger.

A few of the topics Mary & Steve cover:

5:15 - The importance of a safe space
13:00 - Plastic Fruit
18:00 - The fear of being mad at God

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 47 Can I Be Angry At God? (Part 1)

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0500

6:30 - "Who else is there to blame but God?"
11:30 - Ignoring the anger doesn't make it go away
18:00 - Honesty is the key of healthy relationships

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

Just click on the link where you listen to podcasts the most and don't forget to review and subscribe:

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 46 Freedom From Striving (Part 2)

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this two-part episode of the podcast, we take a look at an inspiring testimony from someone who received healing and freedom in Christ via CrossCounsel. Join Mary, Steve and special guest Becky Longoria as they share their insight on Keturah's powerful testimony, and if you want to watch the whole testimony without our commentary, you can watch it on our YouTube page!

A few of the topics Steve, Mary & Becky cover:

7:00 - God takes us as we are
20:45 - Peace comes from truth
28:30 - Golf

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 45 Freedom From Striving (Part 1)

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 14:00:00 -0500

8:00 - Trouble accepting compliments
17:30 - Being honest with yourself and God
22:30 - It gets easier

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 44 Does Transformational Prayer Work Internationally?

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast Mary returns and talks about her time down in Honduras, and all the cool ways God is continuing to build up the ministry there.

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

9:00 - The global application of the MELT process
13:00 - Cultural misconceptions
19:45 - "The Rock of revelation"

If you have your own questions about the ministry, you can go to crosscounsel.com/contact and write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 43 Two Days After 9/11

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 17:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we have a chat with Dwight Clough, a long time friend of the ministry, and hear about the various ways that transformational prayer ministry has changed his life via the healing found in Christ.

A few of the topics Steve and Dwight cover:

10:30 - Everything changes
16:45 - The kitchen table
27:45 - God's tools

If you'd like to check out some of Dwight's writing, you can check out his online book store at https://dwightclough.com/dwights-books/ and if you want to contact him directly, you can go to https://dwightclough.com/about/contact/

If you have your own questions about the ministry, you can go to crosscounsel.com/contact and write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 42 Deep Physical and Emotional Pain Lifted (Part 2)

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this special (two part) episode of the podcast, we take a look at a beautiful testimony from someone who received healing and freedom in Christ via CrossCounsel. Join Mary and Steve as they share their insight on Dusty's powerful testimony, and if you want to watch his whole testimony without our commentary, you can watch it here on our YouTube page!

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

815 - Walking in peace
14:00 - "We walk in the beliefs we have experienced"
25:15 - Jon's thoughts

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 41 Deep Physical and Emotional Pain Lifted (Part 1)

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 14:00:00 -0500

6:45 - The importance of church support
17:45 - Changing the grid we see the world through
27:30 - Emotional walls and beliefs

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 40 Why Is It Easier to See Other People’s Faults?

Mon, 30 May 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we discuss why it is so much easier to see other people's faults while ignoring our own. Can we really be honest about helping others find healing and freedom, if we ourselves are not seeking that same healing and freedom?

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

7:45 - Politics
18:00 - Changing the grid we see the world through
20:15 - Jesus called people hypocrites

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 39 Am I Actually Healing, or Just Feeling Better?

Mon, 23 May 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we have an extended discussion of what it means to actually be healed, versus just feeling better. We discuss the benefits of things like working out, and while those can certainly help us feel better for a time, do they actually bring lasting emotional healing?
A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

0:45 - Funerals
16:45 - Working out
31:00 - "The body remembers"

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 38 What If I Can't Focus?

Mon, 16 May 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we continue looking into what lie-based thinking is, and talk about being distracted during sessions. Join us this week as Mary and Steve explain one of the foundational beliefs of our ministry.
A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

9:15 - Helping people understand what their minds are doing
11:30 - The trap of victim mentality
15:30 - "I'm just not worth it"

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 37 What Is Lie-Based Thinking?

Mon, 09 May 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we answer a question from one of our listeners: What exactly is "Lie-based thinking"? How does it manifest in our lives? Join us this week as Mary and Steve explain one of the foundational beliefs of our ministry.
A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

6:00 - Lie-based thinking vs God's truth
10:00 - Wes receives healing
22:15 - Jon talks about lie-based thinking

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 36 Is Christianity a Crutch?

Mon, 02 May 2022 17:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we discuss the popular question: is Christianity a crutch? It is certainly a common sentiment found in the secular world. And if it is a crutch, is that a bad thing? Tune in to this week's podcast to see what our hosts have to say!

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

6:45 - A Christian litmus test
11:40 - Misconceptions about faith
18:30 - Fear of death

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 35 How Can Spiritual Healing Affect My Family?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we talk about how transformative prayer and emotional healing can affect your relationships (specifically family relationships) in real and profound ways.

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

12:30 - Parents are on a journey
17:45 - Picky eaters
24:15 - Participating as a creator

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 34 How Can Spiritual Healing Affect Romantic Relationships?

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 11:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we talk about how transformative prayer and emotional healing can affect your relationships (specifically romantic ones) in real and profound ways.

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

6:45 - Jon stumbles onto something
16:00 - Relationships and pushing buttons
21:30 - When emotions are running high

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 33 How Can Spiritual Healing Affect the Body?

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 11:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast, we talk about how physical healing can sometimes accompany the inner healing people experience at CrossCounsel, and how closely connected our physical health is to our spiritual health. You won't want to miss it!

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

1:00 - Pablo the rooster
12:30 - Stress and perception
27:00 - "Well I've prayed about it"

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 32 Since You Asked... (Part 2)

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 14:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

We recently received some questions from our podcast listeners, and are excited to to answer them. This week, Steve an Mary will be discussing what 3 components of TPM they consider most important for understanding and sharing with others. We love answering questions from the community, so feel free to write us!

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

6:15 - Manifesting feelings
12:45 - The difference between forgiveness and reconciliation
17:00 - The Sunday morning experience

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 31 Since You Asked... (Part 1)

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 12:00:00 -0500

13:30 - Accountability
16:45 - Witch trials
18:00 - Head belief vs heart belief

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 30 What Stops Me From Stepping In? (Part 2)

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 15:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!
On this 2nd episode of our 2-part series, we continue to tackle some common lie-based thoughts that keep people from experiencing victory over their negative emotions. Join us on the journey as Steve and Mary dispel some of the obstacles/lie-based thoughts that they hear the most.

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

7:30 - "Just let it go."
15:00 - Spiritual maturity
26:15 - Digging up the past

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 29 What Stops Me From Stepping In? (Part 1)

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 11:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we tackle some common lie-based thoughts that keep people from experiencing victory over their negative emotions. We had so much to say we made it a 2-part series! Join us on the journey as Steve and Mary dispel some of the obstacles/lie-based thoughts that they hear the most.

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

7:30 - Can you really put your past behind you?
13:30 - Mike Rowe and safety
23:30 - What if the person who hurt me is no longer alive?

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 28 Can I Really Be Free From Negative Emotions?

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 11:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we discuss our slogan "Negative emotions should not run your life" and talk about how its more than just a phrase, its a declaration of how Christ wants us to live; transformed by His love.

A few of the topics Steve and Mary cover:

7:30 - Worldly peace vs. God's peace
12:30 - A story about Wes & Mary
25:00 - The more freedom we receive, the more we can help others

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 27 Is There Hope for the Younger Generation?

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we interview Hillary, and talk about her journey with Christ, and some of the transformational healing she experienced in her own life. It's an episode you don't want to miss!

A few of the topics Steve and Hillary cover:

8:30 - Sleeping Beauty
12:30 - Panic attacks
23:00 - Reaching out to Gen Z

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 26 What Good Is the "I" Doing?

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 14:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we talk about the "international" aspects of CrossCounsel International Ministries, and the importance of spreading God's love to every tribe and every nation.

A few of the things Steve and Mary cover:

9:30 - A powerful testimony from Nicaragua
16:30 - The importance of international ministry
28:00 - "Why not just stay local?"

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 25 Could This Help Me if I’ve Done Counseling?

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we discuss some frequently asked questions we here from people who are considering CrossCounsel but may not be familiar with what we do.

A few of the things Steve and Mary cover:

8:00 - The internal monsters we create
13:30 - Football
17:00 - Working with children and teens

If you have your own questions about the ministry, go to crosscounsel.com and click on the Contact button to write to us directly.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 24 What if I’m Dealing With Addiction?

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 16:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we talk about how CrossCounsel helps people handle addictions, and the important and biblical principles applied in the 12-step program.

A few of the things Steve and Mary cover:

5:30 - The 12 Step Program
12:00 - Seinfeld and "serenity now"
19:00 - "Courage to change the things I can"

So get ready to talk about addictions, finding healing, and making popcorn.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 23 What if I'm Doing Okay?

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we talk about how CrossCounsel can help you experience healing, even if you are in a good place in life and everything's just "okay".

A few of the things Steve and Mary cover:

4:00 - Confessing to one another.
8:00 - King David's relationship with God
11:00 - Confession versus repentance

So get ready to talk about the importance of confessing to one another, and how we can still be affected by transformational healing, even if everything in life is going okay.

Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 22 What Does Vulnerability in Leadership Look Like?

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 16:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we celebrate the triumphant return of our co-host Mary!

A few of the things Steve and Mary cover:

2:00 - Mary talks about her time in Tyler, Texas
13:30 - Leadership and vulnerability
26:00 - The Karate Kid

So get ready to welcome back Mary, talk about the importance of vulnerability, and the philosophy of "wax on, wax off".
Don't forget to hit follow, and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 21 What Are “Walls” and How Do I Overcome Them?

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 18:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

On this episode of the podcast we get to know Jenni and learn about what she does in CrossCounsel, and talk a bit about overcoming "walls" that can get in the way of transformational healing.

A few of the things Steve and Jenni cover:

1:00 - Who is Jenni? What are intro calls?
10:00 - Jenni's first time experiencing transformational prayer
23:00 - Running into emotional/psychological "walls"

So get ready to meet Jenni and learn about how she helps lead people through the onboarding process, and don't forget to hit follow.
We'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 20 Getting to Know Jon and His First Session Surprise

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 19:00:00 -0600

Hello friend,

Meet Jon, our new host!

A few of the things covered in today's episode:

01:00 - Introducing the new guy from up north

07:00 - Experiencing transformational ministry for the first time

13:00 - The lasting healing we can experience through the love and truth found in Christ

So get ready to meet Jon and hear about his first time at CrossCounsel, and don't forget to hit follow and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 19 What Do I Do About the Stress of Everyday Life?

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

We're taking on another big topic on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

What do I do about the stress of everyday life?

A few of the things Mary and Steve cover:

02:00 - How to learn and grow while going through the storm
11:00 - When you look inside and see WHY you're having stress - you can start getting free
23:00 - How just dampening or ignoring the chaos can make things worse

So buckle up because we're going deep and don't forget to hit follow and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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Ep. 18 How Do I Fulfill My Destiny?

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

We're taking on another big topic on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

How do I fulfill my destiny?

A few of the things Mary and Steve cover:

03:00 - Why it's easier for people outside of your mind to see the greatness in you
11:00 - How the belief "I'm Not Good Enough" can color everything that you do in your life
22:00 - The way that accomplishment doesn't fulfill you when your heart is on lockdown

So buckle up because we're going deep and don't forget to hit follow and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 17 How Do I Set Healthy Boundaries?

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

We're taking on another big topic on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

How do I set healthy boundaries?

A few of the things Mary and Steve cover:

05:00 - How being prone to fear, guilt, and invalidation makes it easy for a certain type of person to take advantage
12:00 - What a healthy boundary looks like
18:00 - How your physical reactions can point to what you're believing in any given situation

So buckle up because we're going deep and don't forget to hit follow and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

Ep. 16 How Do I Change the Background Music?

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0600

Hello friend!

We're taking on another big topic on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

How do you turn off the background music?

aka those thoughts you just can't stop.

A few of the things we cover:

09:00 - How just "working harder" isn't going to stop your background thoughts
16:00 - The way dealing with your roots affects everything in your life (including your family)
28:00 - What to do when life is changing but the music stays the same

So buckle up because we're going deep and don't forget to hit follow and we'll see you on the next one!

P.S. Here's the Mary Poppins video we were talking about.

CrossCounsel Website
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15 | What Does It Mean to Be Spiritually Mature?

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0600

We're taking on another big topic on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

What does it mean to be spiritually mature?

A few of the things we cover:

06:00 - That time Dallas Willard packed out a speaking gig
12:00 - How love should be infiltrating everything you do
17:00 - The importance of gratitude

So buckle up because we're going deep and don't forget to hit follow and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

14 | Why Do I Feel Like I Need to Belong?

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

We're answering a huge question on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

Why do I feel like I need to belong?

A few of the things we cover:

04:00 - The time that Steve destroyed a warehouse
15:00 - How the need to belong is something that God built in you that can easily get twisted
33:00 - A graceful way to handle praise

So buckle up because we're going deep and don't forget to hit follow and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

13 | What Do I Do When Everything Is Falling Apart? (Part 2)

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

We're answering the second part from last week's big question on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

What do I do when everything is falling apart? PART 2

A few of the things we cover:

5:00 - How not changing can make you live life so carefully that you miss out on really living your life and living sacrificially
9:00 - How the stories we grew up with teaches us to "muscle through" which hurts us because we really need to change and adapt
20:00 - How "changing out your tires" in your child's life changes their trajectory and prepares them for the next challenge

So buckle up because we're going deep and don't forget to hit follow and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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12 | What Do I Do When Everything Is Falling Apart? (Part 1)

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

We're answering the first part of another big question on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

What do I do when everything is falling apart?

A few of the things we cover:

03:00 - How the sense of overwhelm can be our lie-based pain being exposed
11:00 - How invalidation is a pervasive issue
17:00 - Why dropping your guard and allowing Christ to address the issues in the past brings peace today

So buckle up because we're going deep and don't forget to hit follow and we'll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
CrossCounsel on Facebook

11 | What Is CrossCounsel’s Secret Sauce?

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0500

Hello friend!

We're answering another big question on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

What is CrossCounsel's Secret Sauce?

A few of the things we cover:
06:00 - How Jesus is at the center of the MELT process
12:00 - The emotions that you feel are an indicator of what you believe
16:00 - Mary dives into the 'Lie' portion and how it uncovers your core beliefs in painful memories
29:00 - How cutting emotions from our daily life keeps you from creating the life that you really want

So buckle up because we're going deep into the MELT process and show you how using this process allows your mind to connect to where it needs to go and receive the Truth of Christ in the most painful places of your life.

CrossCounsel Website
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10 | Did God Give Me My Personality?

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0500

We’re answering a big question on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

Did God give me my personality?

A few of the things we cover:
06:00 - How Mary went from being an “observer” to becoming someone who speaks out
08:00 - The story of our friend, Bob, who used to freeze up talking to groups and stepped into public speaking after following the MELT process
16:00 - How getting your lies out of the way allows you to live from your heart
21:00 - The ways that being an overly empathetic “rescuer” in relationships can be a way to avoid your own pain and fear of rejection
46:00 - The biggest thing that Steve learned in this episode (it’s not what you think)

Don’t forget to subscribe and we’ll see you on the next one!

CrossCounsel Website
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09 | Is It Worth It to Feel the Pain?

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 15:00:00 -0500

Hello friend,

We have a very special topic on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast:

Is it worth it to feel the pain?

And here are just a few of the things that we touch on in the episode:

- Steve triggers the entire Star Trek fandom (8:30)
- How not using your entire emotional spectrum is holding you back in your life (14:00)
- What walking alongside others and lifting burdens can really look like (23:00)
- The miracle of transformation that comes from staring down the garbage in your heart (30:00)

So buckle up because it's going to be a wild ride.

See you soon,
The CrossCounsel Team

CrossCounsel Website
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08 | What if I’m Afraid to Feel?

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0500

Have you ever been asked, "How's your day going?" and you say, "Great!" when in reality things suck?

It may even be with someone that you love and care for and you know would take the time to listen but the idea of unpacking all of the pain of what's going on is just too overwhelming to think about.

Or maybe you're afraid of what they might think of you if you were to unpack what was really going on in your life.

Heck, some of us even try to hide that pain from ourselves.

Never letting ourselves feel the real pain underneath all of those layers.

That's what we're digging into on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast.

Here are just a few of the things that we touch on in the episode:

- What it means to be a safe place to land (8:00)
- How the bar for transformation is staring down the "screenshot" and asking what else you're feeling there (15:00)
- How to unload your emotional backpack to go faster and realize how strong you are (25:00)
- One question that you can ask yourself the next time that you're feeling hesitant about feeling your true feelings (30:00)

Our prayer is that you know how loved you truly are and that you can live life with an unencumbered heart.

See you soon,
The CrossCounsel Team

CrossCounsel Website
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07 |How Many Altar Calls Does It Take To Fix My Heart?

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 12:00:00 -0500

We’re talking about another HUGE topic and something that we’ve been asked before:

How many altar calls does it take to fix my heart?

How many times do I have to recommit?

How many times until something changes and I’m able to feel it past the parking lot after the church service?

And an “altar call” doesn’t have to be something at the end of a sermon.

It could be that motivational video that gets you up in the morning.

That thing that makes you commit to action.

But then you don’t follow through.

The thing is, what’s holding you back is internal.

It’s the lies that you’re believing that don’t get uncovered and dealt with in a typical altar call or recommitment moment.

Because it’s stuck back in that Memory part of MELT

A few things that Steve and Mary uncover in this episode:

How an altar call or challenge to recommit isn’t a bad thing but when it’s the same thing over and over again - it becomes a problem (9:00)
Why the feeling after recommitting didn’t last past the parking lot (14:00)
Why Steve doesn’t pray for more humility (21:00)
Mary breaks into how everyday life changes when you’re addressing your core lies (25:00)
Why bandaids are different than staring down the painful places of your life and walking back through them with peace (30:00)

So strap in.

You’re not going to want to miss this one.

CrossCounsel Website
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06 | What Do I Do When I Get Triggered?

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 16:00:00 -0500

You get cut off in traffic.

Your boss comes into your office at work and says, "I need to see you in my office right now."

Your girlfriend says that you need to talk and it can't wait.

What feelings do you feel?

What comes up in your heart?

You might feel a negative emotion rise up that wasn't there before. Or maybe a latent feeling that normally sits underneath pop up.

Steve Freitag and Mary Carlton jump headfirst into what you need to do when this happens and you're not able to take a moment to really dig into what's going on in your heart.

We go into:
- Where knee-jerk reactions leave you (2:30)
- How do you build on a foundation on the rock (18:00)
- How every single person around you is in some kind of emotional pain (21:00)

So buckle up and get ready - we're going deep into this one.

CrossCounsel Website
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05 | How Do Guys Who Are Tough Actually Deal With Their Stuff?

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0500

We have a VERY special guest on this episode of the CrossCounsel podcast.

Rob McCartney!

Rob has been a board member for CrossCounsel since 2016, a father to 4, and has lead multiple men's groups to lead men into the heart of God.

We covered a ton of stuff in this episode:

4:00 - How Rob kept beating Steve in golf
5:00 - What the antidote to fear really is
10:00 - What to do when things feel out of control
18:00 - How to break out of your emotional box
24:00 - How the lack of good things creates a void in the heart

And even more.

So strap in for a great conversation on masculinity and being the man that your family really deserves.

CrossCounsel Website
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04 | What Does Getting Unstuck Look Like?

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0500

In this brief 8-minute interview, Steve Freitag talks to one of our clients who has found amazing relief using the MELT process.

Make sure to note how she discusses the way that she felt peace in the painful memories of her past "for the first time."

This is an incredible interview and testimony to what God can do when you have the courage to open the door and see how God can redeem the painful areas of your past.

CrossCounsel Website
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03 | Why Am I So Stuck? (Part 2)

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0500

Join us as we dive deeper into answering the question we've all felt:

WHY AM I SO STUCK?

Mary Carlton and Steve Freitag go even deeper on the subject of frustration and how it's holding you back and you're going to want to take a listen as we cover:

What if you don't even know where you're stuck? (2:00)
Why you can't have both frustration and a healthy relationship (4:00)
How believing that you've already dealt with the past keeps you stuck in the past (13:45)

If you missed the first episode you can take a listen by clicking the link below:

Why Am I So Stuck? Pt. 1

We'll see you on the other side.

CrossCounsel Website
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02 | Why Am I So Stuck? (Part 1)

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Have you ever felt stuck before?

Felt like you were trapped?

That you couldn't make another move without the fear that everything would cave in on you?

You're not alone.

There are so many people that come to us because of an overwhelming feeling that they're stuck on the hamster wheel of life and just want to get off.

This is a huge topic that so many people go through so we're breaking it up into parts.

We cover a ton in this episode including:

- If you've ever felt like you couldn't move forward (3:00)
- Why your frustration is actually holding you back (5:00)
- Why "just pressing forward" is keeping you stuck (14:00)
- Why your long-term frustration and anger will never get the results you want (16:00)

So buckle up as Steve and Mary show you how to get unstuck from the rut you've been in.

CrossCounsel Website
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01 | What is CrossCounsel?

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 08:00:00 -0500

CrossCounsel Directors, Mary Carlton and Steve Freitag, share the history of CrossCounsel, what spiritual maturity really looks like, and the way forward.

CrossCounsel Website
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