Better Days Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:30:01 -0500 https://www.betterdaysfmly.co en © 2026 Better Days yes 3ea7018c-074c-54e4-adbc-ec532b34c065 Wesley Towne episodic false The subjects of Mental Health + Suffering have left us all with many questions. Join Wesley Towne as he discusses all things Mental Health + Suffering, and the hope we have for Better Days Ahead. 

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) mental health, suffering, christianity, bible, help, depression, anxiety, illness, jesus, church, Wesley Towne https://storage.buzzsprout.com/btju1cfrvcmcgqj1gxkpfdtjzfp6?.jpg Better Days https://www.betterdaysfmly.co Grief After Loss Grief After Loss When we lose someone in our life we feel deep grief. How do we process grief after loss? In this week's episode, I have a conversation with Jason Caine and Stephanie Caine about the stages of grief after loss and how we should process our grief in a healthy manner as followers of Jesus.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> When we lose someone in our life we feel deep grief. How do we process grief after loss? In this week's episode, I have a conversation with Jason Caine and Stephanie Caine about the stages of grief after loss and how we should process our grief in a healthy manner as followers of Jesus.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-15314226 Wed, 26 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0700 1483 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, joy, burnout, grief 9 9 full false Suffering Changes Us Suffering Changes Us Suffering changes us. Most people who have walked through moments of suffering in life will tell you two truths they reflect on: (1) they would never wish those circumstances of suffering to be repeated in their life, and (2) they would not want to change the person they have become through suffering. In this week’s episode, I have a conversation with Jason Caine and Stephanie Caine about how suffering makes us think deeply about our life and can change us for the good.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> Suffering changes us. Most people who have walked through moments of suffering in life will tell you two truths they reflect on: (1) they would never wish those circumstances of suffering to be repeated in their life, and (2) they would not want to change the person they have become through suffering. In this week’s episode, I have a conversation with Jason Caine and Stephanie Caine about how suffering makes us think deeply about our life and can change us for the good.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-15273419 Wed, 19 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0700 1339 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, joy, burnout, suffering 9 8 full false Finding Joy In Suffering Finding Joy In Suffering The intersection between joy and suffering is hard to process. Hearing someone talk about joy in the midst of suffering can feel deeply conflicting. How are we supposed to find joy in the midst of pain? That is a perfectly fair question. Are we able to feel joy in suffering? In this week's episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine answering this question and pointing out popular misunderstands about joy and suffering.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> The intersection between joy and suffering is hard to process. Hearing someone talk about joy in the midst of suffering can feel deeply conflicting. How are we supposed to find joy in the midst of pain? That is a perfectly fair question. Are we able to feel joy in suffering? In this week's episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine answering this question and pointing out popular misunderstands about joy and suffering.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-15229515 Tue, 11 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0700 1322 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, joy, burnout, suffering 9 7 full false How To Process Insecurities How To Process Insecurities We all have insecurities. Sometimes we struggle with negative viewpoints about ourselves. How do we learn to value and become confident in the person that God created us to be? In this week’s episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine about how to value God's Image in you, process insecurities in a healthy manner and change the inner dialogue about ourselves.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co.

]]> We all have insecurities. Sometimes we struggle with negative viewpoints about ourselves. How do we learn to value and become confident in the person that God created us to be? In this week’s episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine about how to value God's Image in you, process insecurities in a healthy manner and change the inner dialogue about ourselves.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co.

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-15187610 Tue, 04 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0700 1778 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, insecurities, burnout, suffering 9 6 full false Where Is God In My Suffering? Where Is God In My Suffering? Where is God in my suffering? That is a question that many have asked. Sometimes it feels like we are alone in our suffering. We may think that God has, for some reason, detached from us in our suffering. The Bible's storyline around suffering indicates the opposite. God is near to us in our suffering. How does this work out relationally and practically with God as we are walking through suffering? In this week’s episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine answering the question—Where Is God In My Suffering?

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co.

]]> Where is God in my suffering? That is a question that many have asked. Sometimes it feels like we are alone in our suffering. We may think that God has, for some reason, detached from us in our suffering. The Bible's storyline around suffering indicates the opposite. God is near to us in our suffering. How does this work out relationally and practically with God as we are walking through suffering? In this week’s episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine answering the question—Where Is God In My Suffering?

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co.

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-15147993 Tue, 28 May 2024 05:00:00 -0700 1813 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, suffering 9 5 full false Working Together For Good Working Together For Good I have always wrestled with the idea that there is a silver lining in all suffering. Maybe you have too. There are moments of suffering that are devastating. There are people across the globe experiencing horrific pain. How could experiences like these have a silver lining? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine about the reality of pain and suffering being not good, and how God by his very presence, nature and redemptive plan can bring good into our not good human experiences.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> I have always wrestled with the idea that there is a silver lining in all suffering. Maybe you have too. There are moments of suffering that are devastating. There are people across the globe experiencing horrific pain. How could experiences like these have a silver lining? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine about the reality of pain and suffering being not good, and how God by his very presence, nature and redemptive plan can bring good into our not good human experiences.

For more resources from Better Days check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-15103125 Tue, 21 May 2024 05:00:00 -0700 2252 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, suffering 9 4 full false Why Does God Allow Suffering? Why Does God Allow Suffering? Why does God allow suffering? This question has been asked throughout human history. And many who are in the midst of personal suffering wrestle with this question. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Dominic Done, Mark Clark and Jason Caine about the story of creation and fall in Genesis, reasons why God allows suffering and offer practical encouragement for those who are presently suffering.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> Why does God allow suffering? This question has been asked throughout human history. And many who are in the midst of personal suffering wrestle with this question. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Dominic Done, Mark Clark and Jason Caine about the story of creation and fall in Genesis, reasons why God allows suffering and offer practical encouragement for those who are presently suffering.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-15064049 Tue, 14 May 2024 05:00:00 -0700 2947 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, suffering 9 3 full false Flourishing in Your Mental Health, Pt. 02 Flourishing in Your Mental Health, Pt. 02 This week we continue the conversation we began last week about How to Flourish in Your Mental Health. There are two sides to mental health—suffering and flourishing. When we discuss mental health, we are often talking about how people suffer in relationship to their mental health. And that is an important conversation. In addition to that conversation, we also need to talk about how to flourish in our mental health. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine about core aspects of how God designed us to flourish in our mental health and how we can practically invest in each of those areas of life. This is part 02 of a two part discussion. Make sure to check out the previous episode for part 01. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> This week we continue the conversation we began last week about How to Flourish in Your Mental Health. There are two sides to mental health—suffering and flourishing. When we discuss mental health, we are often talking about how people suffer in relationship to their mental health. And that is an important conversation. In addition to that conversation, we also need to talk about how to flourish in our mental health. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine about core aspects of how God designed us to flourish in our mental health and how we can practically invest in each of those areas of life. This is part 02 of a two part discussion. Make sure to check out the previous episode for part 01. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-15020645 Tue, 07 May 2024 05:00:00 -0700 1514 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, self-care, relationships 9 2 full false Flourishing in Your Mental Health, Pt. 01 Flourishing in Your Mental Health, Pt. 01 There are two sides to mental health—suffering and flourishing. When we discuss mental health, we are often talking about how people suffer in relationship to their mental health. And that is an important conversation. In addition to that conversation, we also need to talk about how to flourish in our mental health. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine about core aspects of how God designed us to flourish in our mental health and how we can practically invest in each of those areas of life. This is part 01 of a two part discussion on How to Flourish in Your Mental Health.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> There are two sides to mental health—suffering and flourishing. When we discuss mental health, we are often talking about how people suffer in relationship to their mental health. And that is an important conversation. In addition to that conversation, we also need to talk about how to flourish in our mental health. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine and Jason Caine about core aspects of how God designed us to flourish in our mental health and how we can practically invest in each of those areas of life. This is part 01 of a two part discussion on How to Flourish in Your Mental Health.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-14980729 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0700 2212 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, self-care, relationships 9 1 full false Trailer S09 Trailer S09 Welcome to Better Days Podcast, Season 9. 

This season of the Better Days Podcast we are going to talk about different aspects of mental health + suffering. Througout these episodes we are going to lay a theological framework for each topic, flesh out misunderstandings that we sometimes hold as followers of Jesus and offer practical tips to help you along in your journey.

If you are new to Better Days, we are a nonprofit seeking to bring hope, awareness and education to all things mental health + suffering. We help people, churches and leaders understand the intersection between mental health + suffering, and following Jesus.

For more content from Better Days or to support our work, check out our website www.betterdaysfmly.co.

]]> Welcome to Better Days Podcast, Season 9. 

This season of the Better Days Podcast we are going to talk about different aspects of mental health + suffering. Througout these episodes we are going to lay a theological framework for each topic, flesh out misunderstandings that we sometimes hold as followers of Jesus and offer practical tips to help you along in your journey.

If you are new to Better Days, we are a nonprofit seeking to bring hope, awareness and education to all things mental health + suffering. We help people, churches and leaders understand the intersection between mental health + suffering, and following Jesus.

For more content from Better Days or to support our work, check out our website www.betterdaysfmly.co.

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-14972286 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0700 171 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, self-care, relationships, health 9 trailer false Therapy & Helping Hurting People Therapy & Helping Hurting People How do we help hurting people? And how do we know when to reach out for help with our mental health?  In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about how to help hurting people, knowing when to reach out for help, and therapy 101. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> How do we help hurting people? And how do we know when to reach out for help with our mental health?  In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about how to help hurting people, knowing when to reach out for help, and therapy 101. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13412135 Tue, 15 Aug 2023 13:00:00 -0700 1930 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, self-care, relationships, health 8 11 full false Relationships Relationships Relationships are a core component to mental health. Healthy relationships can cause us to flourish. And unhealthy relationships bring us stress and pain. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about God's design for relationships, healthy traits in relationships, unhealthy traits in relationships and wisdom to navigate relationships.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Relationships are a core component to mental health. Healthy relationships can cause us to flourish. And unhealthy relationships bring us stress and pain. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about God's design for relationships, healthy traits in relationships, unhealthy traits in relationships and wisdom to navigate relationships.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13369261 Tue, 08 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0700 1697 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, self-care, relationships 8 10 full false Grief Grief Grief is a normal human response to loss and painful moments in life. Followers of Jesus should learn to grieve in an emotionally and spiritually healthy manner. What does that look like? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about  the anatomy of grief, grief in the Bible and how to have a healthy relationship with grief as a follower of Jesus. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Grief is a normal human response to loss and painful moments in life. Followers of Jesus should learn to grieve in an emotionally and spiritually healthy manner. What does that look like? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about  the anatomy of grief, grief in the Bible and how to have a healthy relationship with grief as a follower of Jesus. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13329156 Tue, 01 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0700 1375 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, self-care 8 9 full false Trauma Trauma Trauma is a popular topic in our culture. What is trauma? And how should followers of Jesus think about trauma? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about trauma in our culture, a theology of trauma, the danger of thinking that everything has a silver lining, and what not to say to someone who has experienced trauma. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Trauma is a popular topic in our culture. What is trauma? And how should followers of Jesus think about trauma? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about trauma in our culture, a theology of trauma, the danger of thinking that everything has a silver lining, and what not to say to someone who has experienced trauma. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13284997 Tue, 25 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0700 2575 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, self-care 8 8 full false Suicide Suicide Suicide is a sensitive topic. The reality of suicide has intersected with many people’s lives. Some have thought about suicide in their deep pain and hopelessness, and others have been affected personally through losing someone they loved to suicide. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about suicide, wisdom for pastors interacting with people in pain, and finding help and hope when you feel hopeless. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Suicide is a sensitive topic. The reality of suicide has intersected with many people’s lives. Some have thought about suicide in their deep pain and hopelessness, and others have been affected personally through losing someone they loved to suicide. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Jason Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor about suicide, wisdom for pastors interacting with people in pain, and finding help and hope when you feel hopeless. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13243966 Tue, 18 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0700 1841 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, self-care, suicide 8 7 full false Theology of Self-Care Theology of Self-Care What is self-care? Should followers of Jesus have a healthy theology and practice of self-care? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor discussing a healthy theology of self-care, misconceptions around self-care, and offer practices for followers of Jesus to steward their body and soul as an investment in their mental health. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> What is self-care? Should followers of Jesus have a healthy theology and practice of self-care? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine and Dr. Casey Taylor discussing a healthy theology of self-care, misconceptions around self-care, and offer practices for followers of Jesus to steward their body and soul as an investment in their mental health. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13201388 Tue, 11 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0700 1787 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout, self-care 8 6 full false Burnout Burnout Burnout seems to be an epidemic in western culture. Burnout is no longer the experience of a few. Burnout has become the experience of the majority. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about the anatomy of burnout, causes of burnout, what the Bible says about burnout, and how to prevent and heal from burnout. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Burnout seems to be an epidemic in western culture. Burnout is no longer the experience of a few. Burnout has become the experience of the majority. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about the anatomy of burnout, causes of burnout, what the Bible says about burnout, and how to prevent and heal from burnout. 

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13164376 Wed, 05 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0700 2730 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible, burnout 8 5 full false Depression Depression Millions of people are living through the reality of depression in this moment. Depression is a complex and often confusing experience. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about what depression is, why people are afraid to talk about depression, what the Bible says about depression, and healthy practices and pathways for those who are  suffering with depression.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Millions of people are living through the reality of depression in this moment. Depression is a complex and often confusing experience. In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about what depression is, why people are afraid to talk about depression, what the Bible says about depression, and healthy practices and pathways for those who are  suffering with depression.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13115950 Tue, 27 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0700 2385 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible 8 4 full false Anxiety Anxiety Anxiety is the most prevalent mental health condition in the US. What does the Bible say about anxiety? And how can followers of Jesus navigate anxiety? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about what the Bible says about anxiety, different types of anxiety, and healthy practices for adults and kids to navigate anxiety.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Anxiety is the most prevalent mental health condition in the US. What does the Bible say about anxiety? And how can followers of Jesus navigate anxiety? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about what the Bible says about anxiety, different types of anxiety, and healthy practices for adults and kids to navigate anxiety.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13073197 Tue, 20 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0700 2615 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible 8 3 full false Mental Health & Culture Mental Health & Culture Mental health challenges appear to be affecting every generation in our culture, particularly the youngest generations. Why are mental health statistics rising in our culture? And what are the causes behind these rising mental health challenges? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about current mental health statistics and trends in our culture, causes behind the rising statistics, and how we can shape mentally and emotionally healthy followers of Jesus.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Mental health challenges appear to be affecting every generation in our culture, particularly the youngest generations. Why are mental health statistics rising in our culture? And what are the causes behind these rising mental health challenges? In this weeks episode, Wesley Towne has a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about current mental health statistics and trends in our culture, causes behind the rising statistics, and how we can shape mentally and emotionally healthy followers of Jesus.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-13028372 Mon, 12 Jun 2023 19:00:00 -0700 1893 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, mental health matters, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible 8 2 full false Mental Health & Christianity Mental Health & Christianity How does mental health relate to Christianity and following Jesus? Mental health is deeply rooted in the story of the Bible. Mental health and every bit of human flourishing was God's design from the beginning. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about the intersection between mental health, Christianity and following Jesus.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> How does mental health relate to Christianity and following Jesus? Mental health is deeply rooted in the story of the Bible. Mental health and every bit of human flourishing was God's design from the beginning. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Dr. Stephanie Caine, Dr. Casey Taylor and Jason Caine about the intersection between mental health, Christianity and following Jesus.

For more resources check out https://www.betterdaysfmly.co

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-12986209 Tue, 06 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0700 1887 better days, better days ahead, honest hope, mental health, Jesus, Christianity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, emotions, health, mental health awareness, therapy, hope, crisis, Bible 8 1 full false The Reality of Suicide The Reality of Suicide Suicide is a reality for many people. Some have thought about suicide in their deep pain and hopelessness, and others have been affected personally through losing someone they knew to suicide. In this weeks episode, I talk about the reality of suicide in this current moment, and share help and hope for those who are walking through deep pain and suicidal ideation. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal ideation, please reach out for help. Here are two resources: 

You can call the national suicide prevention lifeline 1-800-273-8255. 

You can text the Crisis Text Line. This is a free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text 741741 from anywhere in the US to text with a trained Crisis Counselor.

]]> Suicide is a reality for many people. Some have thought about suicide in their deep pain and hopelessness, and others have been affected personally through losing someone they knew to suicide. In this weeks episode, I talk about the reality of suicide in this current moment, and share help and hope for those who are walking through deep pain and suicidal ideation. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal ideation, please reach out for help. Here are two resources: 

You can call the national suicide prevention lifeline 1-800-273-8255. 

You can text the Crisis Text Line. This is a free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text 741741 from anywhere in the US to text with a trained Crisis Counselor.

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-9191619 Mon, 13 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0700 1075 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, trauma, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, grief 7 9 full false A Conversation on Trauma with Stephanie Caine A Conversation on Trauma with Stephanie Caine Trauma is an emotional response to disturbing or life-threatening events. Trauma leaves an imprint on our lives. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine about the anatomy of trauma and how to process through trauma in a healthy manner. 

]]> Trauma is an emotional response to disturbing or life-threatening events. Trauma leaves an imprint on our lives. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Stephanie Caine about the anatomy of trauma and how to process through trauma in a healthy manner. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-9151451 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 22:00:00 -0700 2289 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, trauma, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, grief 7 8 full false A Conversation about Grief A Conversation about Grief Grief is an emotion that we feel when we experience a loss. What does healthy grief look like? How can we both grieve and find joy simultaneously? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation about the anatomy of grief and how to process through grief in a healthy manner. 

]]> Grief is an emotion that we feel when we experience a loss. What does healthy grief look like? How can we both grieve and find joy simultaneously? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation about the anatomy of grief and how to process through grief in a healthy manner. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-9113330 Tue, 31 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0700 613 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, grief 7 7 full false A Conversation on Emotionally Healthy Leadership with Benji Horning + Xavier Brasseur A Conversation on Emotionally Healthy Leadership with Benji Horning + Xavier Brasseur We cannot spend our lives leading others well if we have not made intentional decisions to lead ourselves well. Emotionally healthy leadership influences the health of our internal well-being and the health of our leadership with people. What is emotionally healthy leadership? How do we become emotionally healthy leaders? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Benji Horning and Xavier Brasseur about our current journeys toward emotionally healthy leadership and what we have learned along the way. 

]]> We cannot spend our lives leading others well if we have not made intentional decisions to lead ourselves well. Emotionally healthy leadership influences the health of our internal well-being and the health of our leadership with people. What is emotionally healthy leadership? How do we become emotionally healthy leaders? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Benji Horning and Xavier Brasseur about our current journeys toward emotionally healthy leadership and what we have learned along the way. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-9077604 Tue, 24 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0700 2447 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 7 6 full false A Conversation about Anger A Conversation about Anger Anger can be a confusing emotion. It is also an emotion that is often hard to navigate. What is anger? Why do we become angry? How should we think about anger as followers of Jesus? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation about the anatomy of anger and how to process through anger in a healthy manner. 

]]> Anger can be a confusing emotion. It is also an emotion that is often hard to navigate. What is anger? Why do we become angry? How should we think about anger as followers of Jesus? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation about the anatomy of anger and how to process through anger in a healthy manner. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-9042215 Tue, 17 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0700 1205 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, anger, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 7 5 full false A Conversation on Shame with Casey Shortt A Conversation on Shame with Casey Shortt Shame is a powerful emotion. It can attack our identity and worth as humans created in the Image of God. What is shame? How does shame influence our lives? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Casey Shortt, a clinical psychologist, about the anatomy of shame and how to process through shame in a healthy manner. 

]]> Shame is a powerful emotion. It can attack our identity and worth as humans created in the Image of God. What is shame? How does shame influence our lives? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Casey Shortt, a clinical psychologist, about the anatomy of shame and how to process through shame in a healthy manner. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-9005750 Tue, 10 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0700 2545 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, shame, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 7 4 full false A Conversation on Guilt with Casey Shortt A Conversation on Guilt with Casey Shortt Guilt is an emotion that all humans feel. We are imperfect and experience the internal sense of wrongdoing. How do we process our guilt in a healthy manner? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Casey Shortt, a clinical psychologist, about the anatomy of guilt and how to process through guilt in a healthy manner. 

]]> Guilt is an emotion that all humans feel. We are imperfect and experience the internal sense of wrongdoing. How do we process our guilt in a healthy manner? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Casey Shortt, a clinical psychologist, about the anatomy of guilt and how to process through guilt in a healthy manner. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-8967429 Tue, 03 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0700 1789 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 7 3 full false A Conversation on Identity with Dominic Done A Conversation on Identity with Dominic Done Identity is not a simple topic, nor is it is a simple endeavor to understand. Identity is complex and layered. Many of us struggle with our identity, and this struggle can often shape our internal emotional and mental narrative. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with my friend Dominic Done about human identity, how identity influences us mentally and emotionally, and how to practically understand and shape our identity. 

]]> Identity is not a simple topic, nor is it is a simple endeavor to understand. Identity is complex and layered. Many of us struggle with our identity, and this struggle can often shape our internal emotional and mental narrative. In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with my friend Dominic Done about human identity, how identity influences us mentally and emotionally, and how to practically understand and shape our identity. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-8934107 Tue, 27 Jul 2021 14:00:00 -0700 2145 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 7 2 full false A Conversation on Emotional Health with Xavier Brasseur A Conversation on Emotional Health with Xavier Brasseur Emotional health is a popular topic in our culture. What is emotional health? How do we cultivate emotional health? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with my friend Xavier Brasseur about the different facets of emotional health, how to cultivate emotional health, and our stories growing up in broken homes and how we have pursued emotional health as adults. 

]]> Emotional health is a popular topic in our culture. What is emotional health? How do we cultivate emotional health? In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with my friend Xavier Brasseur about the different facets of emotional health, how to cultivate emotional health, and our stories growing up in broken homes and how we have pursued emotional health as adults. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-8895688 Tue, 20 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0700 2265 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 7 1 full false Summer Session S07 Summer Session S07 Welcome to Better Days Podcast, The Summer Session! 

This summer I am looking forward to having conversations with people about emotional and mental health. I will end each episode with a tip to practice. These tips will help you process and navigate your own mental and emotional health. 

I am so looking forward to these conversations. 

Join us next week for our first episode.

]]> Welcome to Better Days Podcast, The Summer Session! 

This summer I am looking forward to having conversations with people about emotional and mental health. I will end each episode with a tip to practice. These tips will help you process and navigate your own mental and emotional health. 

I am so looking forward to these conversations. 

Join us next week for our first episode.

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-8877357 Fri, 16 Jul 2021 21:00:00 -0700 121 emotional health, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 7 trailer false Honest Hope Honest Hope Hope is one of the most important and life giving words for humans walking through the hard moments of life. What is hope? In this episode, I discuss various versions of hope, and spend time explaining a version of hope that allows us to enter into our present experience while also believing that there are Better Days Ahead. 

]]> Hope is one of the most important and life giving words for humans walking through the hard moments of life. What is hope? In this episode, I discuss various versions of hope, and spend time explaining a version of hope that allows us to enter into our present experience while also believing that there are Better Days Ahead. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-8197832 Tue, 23 Mar 2021 13:00:00 -0700 616 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, loss, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, grief 6 15 full false Lament, Suffering + Following Jesus 02 Lament, Suffering + Following Jesus 02 Suffering is a universal human experience. How do we walk through moments of suffering? In this weeks episode, I talk about how lament teaches to engage with reality, have honest faith, be emotionally aware and present, wrestle with our suffering, and follow the example of Jesus who practiced lament when he faced deep pain and sorrow. 

]]> Suffering is a universal human experience. How do we walk through moments of suffering? In this weeks episode, I talk about how lament teaches to engage with reality, have honest faith, be emotionally aware and present, wrestle with our suffering, and follow the example of Jesus who practiced lament when he faced deep pain and sorrow. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-8151520 Tue, 16 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0700 910 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, loss, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, grief 6 14 full false Lament, Suffering + Following Jesus 01 Lament, Suffering + Following Jesus 01 Suffering is a universal human experience. How do we walk through moments of suffering? In this weeks episode, I talk about several core facets of lament, and how these truths help us to walk through moments of suffering. 

]]> Suffering is a universal human experience. How do we walk through moments of suffering? In this weeks episode, I talk about several core facets of lament, and how these truths help us to walk through moments of suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-8107149 Tue, 09 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0800 759 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, loss, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, grief 6 13 full false Lament + Grief Lament + Grief Many of us are deeply familiar with the experience of grief. Grief is an emotion that we feel when we experience loss. What does grief look like? And, what does lament teach us about grief?  In this weeks podcast, I talk about the anatomy of grief and how lament encourages us to engage with loss and enter into our grief. 

]]> Many of us are deeply familiar with the experience of grief. Grief is an emotion that we feel when we experience loss. What does grief look like? And, what does lament teach us about grief?  In this weeks podcast, I talk about the anatomy of grief and how lament encourages us to engage with loss and enter into our grief. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-8060455 Tue, 02 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0800 1002 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, loss, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, grief 6 12 full false Lament + American Christianity Lament + American Christianity We live in a culture obsessed with happiness, positivity and success. This cultural atmosphere makes us uncomfortable communicating the pain and emotions around suffering. The biblical world had a language and response to pain and suffering called lament. In this weeks podcast, I talk about what lament is, how our western culture is hindering us from processing the painful moments of life, and how lament gives us a shared language and pathway to process our pain and suffering. 

]]> We live in a culture obsessed with happiness, positivity and success. This cultural atmosphere makes us uncomfortable communicating the pain and emotions around suffering. The biblical world had a language and response to pain and suffering called lament. In this weeks podcast, I talk about what lament is, how our western culture is hindering us from processing the painful moments of life, and how lament gives us a shared language and pathway to process our pain and suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-8014415 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0800 1098 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 11 full false Processing Our Past + Family of Origin Processing Our Past + Family of Origin We all desire to feel at peace. We all want to live fully in the reality of the present. We all want a future where feel emotionally, mentally, and relationally unhindered so that we can fully engage in our relationships. Sometimes we have to process our past in order to find healing, freedom and growth for our future. In this weeks podcast, I talk about the value of processing our past, the influence our past has on our present and future, and I share a framework for processing our past. 

]]> We all desire to feel at peace. We all want to live fully in the reality of the present. We all want a future where feel emotionally, mentally, and relationally unhindered so that we can fully engage in our relationships. Sometimes we have to process our past in order to find healing, freedom and growth for our future. In this weeks podcast, I talk about the value of processing our past, the influence our past has on our present and future, and I share a framework for processing our past. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-7903636 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0800 1000 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 10 full false Tips for Anxiety 02 Tips for Anxiety 02 Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, I talk about anxiety and stress, anxiety and self-care, anxiety and relational support, and the importance of professional help. 

]]> Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, I talk about anxiety and stress, anxiety and self-care, anxiety and relational support, and the importance of professional help. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-7764667 Tue, 09 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0800 995 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 9 full false Tips for Anxiety 01 Tips for Anxiety 01 Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, I share my experience with anxiety, along with practices and concepts that have helped me. 

]]> Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, I share my experience with anxiety, along with practices and concepts that have helped me. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-7639906 Tue, 02 Feb 2021 14:00:00 -0800 1472 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 8 full false Anxiety, the Bible + Thought Patterns Anxiety, the Bible + Thought Patterns Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about the narratives around anxiety in Christianity, what the Bible teaches about anxiety, unhealthy thought patterns, and getting to the root cause of anxiety. 

]]> Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about the narratives around anxiety in Christianity, what the Bible teaches about anxiety, unhealthy thought patterns, and getting to the root cause of anxiety. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-7496443 Tue, 26 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0800 1347 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 7 full false Understanding Anxiety Understanding Anxiety Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation around why people are feeling anxiety in this moment, the difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder, and I share some of my own personal challenges with anxiety. 

]]> Anxiety is so prevalent in this moment. Many of us are feeling anxious about the events that we are living through. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation around why people are feeling anxiety in this moment, the difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder, and I share some of my own personal challenges with anxiety. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-7379419 Tue, 19 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0800 1102 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 6 full false Depression, Stigmas + Understanding Depression, Stigmas + Understanding Depression is a widespread reality in our world. People are walking through the pain, confusion, and deeply complex experience of depression. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about the difference between stigmas vs. understanding when it comes to depression, and offer five tips to understand a person who is experiencing depression. 

]]> Depression is a widespread reality in our world. People are walking through the pain, confusion, and deeply complex experience of depression. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about the difference between stigmas vs. understanding when it comes to depression, and offer five tips to understand a person who is experiencing depression. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-7257649 Tue, 12 Jan 2021 09:00:00 -0800 938 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 5 full false Depression + the Bible Depression + the Bible Depression is a widespread reality in our world. People are walking through the pain, confusion, and deeply complex experience of depression. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about depression in the Bible, the mental and emotional pain that Jesus and others experienced throughout history, and how this validates us being human. 

]]> Depression is a widespread reality in our world. People are walking through the pain, confusion, and deeply complex experience of depression. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about depression in the Bible, the mental and emotional pain that Jesus and others experienced throughout history, and how this validates us being human. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-7144294 Tue, 05 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0800 1333 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 4 full false Depression + Christianity Depression + Christianity Depression is a widespread reality in 2020. People are walking through the pain, confusion, and deeply complex experience of depression. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about depression in this moment, learn basics about the experience of depression, and explain the need to deconstruct and reconstruct the conversation around depression in Christianity. 

]]> Depression is a widespread reality in 2020. People are walking through the pain, confusion, and deeply complex experience of depression. In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about depression in this moment, learn basics about the experience of depression, and explain the need to deconstruct and reconstruct the conversation around depression in Christianity. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-6863520 Tue, 15 Dec 2020 11:00:00 -0800 871 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 3 full false Processing a Crisis Like Jesus Processing a Crisis Like Jesus All of us have been walking through one of the hardest moments in modern history--a global crisis that has deeply shaped our lives.  How do we navigate the effects of this moment? In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about the mental and emotional effects of this crisis on our lives, and offer four practical responses to a crisis that we learn from the life of Jesus. 

]]> All of us have been walking through one of the hardest moments in modern history--a global crisis that has deeply shaped our lives.  How do we navigate the effects of this moment? In this weeks episode, we have a conversation about the mental and emotional effects of this crisis on our lives, and offer four practical responses to a crisis that we learn from the life of Jesus. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-6756448 Tue, 08 Dec 2020 12:00:00 -0800 808 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 2 full false Don't Lose Yourself in Suffering Don't Lose Yourself in Suffering Suffering and pain have a way of overshadowing essential parts of being human. We have a tendency to withdraw, isolate and lose our self-worth during seasons of suffering. It is easy to get so enveloped in our pain that we forget that we are still a living human. In this episode, I talk about losing ourselves in suffering, how to be fully alive in the midst of suffering, and offer some practical steps forward. 

]]> Suffering and pain have a way of overshadowing essential parts of being human. We have a tendency to withdraw, isolate and lose our self-worth during seasons of suffering. It is easy to get so enveloped in our pain that we forget that we are still a living human. In this episode, I talk about losing ourselves in suffering, how to be fully alive in the midst of suffering, and offer some practical steps forward. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-6647488 Tue, 01 Dec 2020 18:00:00 -0800 654 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 1 full false Trailer 06 Trailer 06 Welcome to Better Days Podcast, Season 6. 

Better Days is a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and what it means to be human and follow Jesus.

In Season 6, we will be exploring various topics around Mental Health + Suffering and how they relate to this cultural moment we are living through.  Follow along as we find hope, help and wisdom to navigate through the mental health challenges and suffering that we face in this moment.  

]]> Welcome to Better Days Podcast, Season 6. 

Better Days is a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and what it means to be human and follow Jesus.

In Season 6, we will be exploring various topics around Mental Health + Suffering and how they relate to this cultural moment we are living through.  Follow along as we find hope, help and wisdom to navigate through the mental health challenges and suffering that we face in this moment.  

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-6616501 Mon, 30 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0800 299 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress 6 trailer false Efrem Smith: The Pain of Racism Efrem Smith: The Pain of Racism In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 6, Efrem Smith shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and offers practical steps toward equality and reconciliation. Efrem is a leading voice in Christianity around the subjects of racial reconciliation and justice. 

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 6, Efrem Smith shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and offers practical steps toward equality and reconciliation. Efrem is a leading voice in Christianity around the subjects of racial reconciliation and justice. 

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-5552758 Tue, 22 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0700 2556 racism, equality, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, empathy, justice 5 6 full false Kayla Johnson: The Pain of Racism Kayla Johnson: The Pain of Racism In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 5, Kayla Johnson shares her story--her pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and her hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 5, Kayla Johnson shares her story--her pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and her hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-5453104 Tue, 15 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0700 3002 racism, equality, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, empathy, justice 5 5 full false Tyronne Gross: The Pain of Racism Tyronne Gross: The Pain of Racism In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 4, Tyronne Gross shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, how he talks to his kids about racism, and his hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 4, Tyronne Gross shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, how he talks to his kids about racism, and his hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-5346223 Tue, 08 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0700 2887 racism, equality, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, empathy, justice 5 4 full false Christa Armstead: The Pain of Racism Christa Armstead: The Pain of Racism In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 3, Christa Armstead shares her story--her pain, not wanting to live, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and her hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 3, Christa Armstead shares her story--her pain, not wanting to live, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and her hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-5237788 Tue, 01 Sep 2020 13:00:00 -0700 2395 racism, equality, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, empathy, justice 5 3 full false Tim Johnson: The Pain of Racism Tim Johnson: The Pain of Racism In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 2, Tim Johnson shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism,  and his hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 2, Tim Johnson shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism,  and his hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-5137411 Mon, 24 Aug 2020 21:00:00 -0700 3390 racism, equality, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, empathy, justice 5 2 full false Michael Metcalf: The Pain of Racism Michael Metcalf: The Pain of Racism In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 1, Michael Metcalf shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and his hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> In Season 5, we are opening up a conversations to learn about the Pain of Racism. In Episode 1, Michael Metcalf shares his story--his pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and his hope for change.

Visit betterdaysfmly.co to support Better Days and for more content around Mental Health + Suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-5052965 Tue, 18 Aug 2020 14:00:00 -0700 1995 racism, equality, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, empathy, justice, 5 1 full false Trailer 05 - The Pain of Racism Trailer 05 - The Pain of Racism Welcome to Better Days, Season 5. 

Most of us have a personal knowledge of human suffering. We have suffered. Someone close to us has suffered. And we all realize that suffering comes in many forms. Yet, many us have never experienced racism. Racism is a devastating form of human suffering. We are in a cultural moment where each one of us is aware of the pervasive reality of racism and the human suffering associated with it. We are living in a moment where each of us has the opportunity to learn, listen, empathize and collectively enter into the change process. In Season 5, we will open up a conversation and listen to the stories of friends of mine who have lived through racism. They will talk about their pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and their hope for change. Join me, as we enter into this important conversation about The Pain of Racism.  

]]> Welcome to Better Days, Season 5. 

Most of us have a personal knowledge of human suffering. We have suffered. Someone close to us has suffered. And we all realize that suffering comes in many forms. Yet, many us have never experienced racism. Racism is a devastating form of human suffering. We are in a cultural moment where each one of us is aware of the pervasive reality of racism and the human suffering associated with it. We are living in a moment where each of us has the opportunity to learn, listen, empathize and collectively enter into the change process. In Season 5, we will open up a conversation and listen to the stories of friends of mine who have lived through racism. They will talk about their pain, the mental and emotional toll of racism, and their hope for change. Join me, as we enter into this important conversation about The Pain of Racism.  

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-4958402 Tue, 11 Aug 2020 17:00:00 -0700 299 racism, equality, mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, empathy, justice, 5 trailer false Making Good When All Feels Bad Making Good When All Feels Bad All is not good when we live through moments of pain and crisis. So how do we make good when all feels bad? In this episode, I talk about finding meaning and good in the midst of pain. 

]]> All is not good when we live through moments of pain and crisis. So how do we make good when all feels bad? In this episode, I talk about finding meaning and good in the midst of pain. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-3727817 Tue, 12 May 2020 08:00:00 -0700 557 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, emotions, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, pain, Bible, stress 4 9 full false A Crisis + Feeling Anxious A Crisis + Feeling Anxious We are all feeling stress and anxiety during this time. How do we process our anxiety in this moment? In this episode, I talk about anxiety, why we are feeling it, what God thinks about human anxieties, and practical tips to process anxiety in a healthy manner. 

]]> We are all feeling stress and anxiety during this time. How do we process our anxiety in this moment? In this episode, I talk about anxiety, why we are feeling it, what God thinks about human anxieties, and practical tips to process anxiety in a healthy manner. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-3634039 Tue, 05 May 2020 11:00:00 -0700 856 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, emotions, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, pain, Bible, stress 4 8 full false Coronavirus, a Crisis + Tips for Leaders Coronavirus, a Crisis + Tips for Leaders Being a leader in this moment is challenging. We are living through an unprecedented and complex crisis. The people we are leading are searching for answers, carrying various burdens, and trying to process a crisis that they have never faced. In this episode, I share 6 tips for leading yourself, your team, and the people you influence in this moment. 

]]> Being a leader in this moment is challenging. We are living through an unprecedented and complex crisis. The people we are leading are searching for answers, carrying various burdens, and trying to process a crisis that they have never faced. In this episode, I share 6 tips for leading yourself, your team, and the people you influence in this moment. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-3543010 Tue, 28 Apr 2020 11:00:00 -0700 920 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, emotions, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, pain, Bible, stress 4 7 full false Coronavirus, a Crisis + Helping Hurting People Coronavirus, a Crisis + Helping Hurting People There are so many people struggling with pain and grief in this crisis. How do we relationally help and engage with those around us who are hurting? In this episode, I offer six tips for relationally helping people who are struggling with mental health or suffering during this crisis. 

]]> There are so many people struggling with pain and grief in this crisis. How do we relationally help and engage with those around us who are hurting? In this episode, I offer six tips for relationally helping people who are struggling with mental health or suffering during this crisis. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-3455146 Tue, 21 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0700 645 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, emotions, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, pain, Bible, stress 4 6 full false Coronavirus, a Crisis + Processing Pain Coronavirus, a Crisis + Processing Pain This is a time when we are all in a vulnerable state—thinking about life, feeling a myriad of emotions, and possibly experiencing the resurfacing of unprocessed pain. In this episode, I talk about how Jesus processed human pain, and the lessons we can learn from his interaction with pain. 

]]> This is a time when we are all in a vulnerable state—thinking about life, feeling a myriad of emotions, and possibly experiencing the resurfacing of unprocessed pain. In this episode, I talk about how Jesus processed human pain, and the lessons we can learn from his interaction with pain. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-3361357 Tue, 14 Apr 2020 12:00:00 -0700 698 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, emotions, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, pain, Bible, stress 4 5 full false Coronavirus, a Crisis + Emotional Health Coronavirus, a Crisis + Emotional Health How do we process through the emotional disruption that we are feeling? In this episode, I talk about the importance of emotions, how our brain and body react to a crisis, and how to cultivate emotional health during this time.

]]> How do we process through the emotional disruption that we are feeling? In this episode, I talk about the importance of emotions, how our brain and body react to a crisis, and how to cultivate emotional health during this time.

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-3275920 Tue, 07 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0700 893 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, emotions, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, 4 4 full false Coronavirus, a Crisis + Relational Health Coronavirus, a Crisis + Relational Health A crisis disrupts routines, relational rhythms, and emotional capacity. This can either put a strain on a relationship or lead to greater growth and depth. In this episode, I explain how this crisis is an oppurtunity to grow in our relationships, and offer four categories of relational growth during a crisis. 

]]> A crisis disrupts routines, relational rhythms, and emotional capacity. This can either put a strain on a relationship or lead to greater growth and depth. In this episode, I explain how this crisis is an oppurtunity to grow in our relationships, and offer four categories of relational growth during a crisis. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-3192502 Tue, 31 Mar 2020 14:00:00 -0700 743 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, 4 3 full false Coronavirus, a Crisis + Spiritual Health Coronavirus, a Crisis + Spiritual Health We are all living through an unprecedented crisis. This global pandemic is reshaping the way we live our lives. Many of us are feeling a little unsettled, stressed, and anxious. Life has been disrupted. How do we cultivate spiritual health in the midst of disruption? In this episode, I explain the importance of investing in what we can control, share two opportunities we have in this moment, and offer six words to cultivate spiritual health in the midst of disruption. 

]]> We are all living through an unprecedented crisis. This global pandemic is reshaping the way we live our lives. Many of us are feeling a little unsettled, stressed, and anxious. Life has been disrupted. How do we cultivate spiritual health in the midst of disruption? In this episode, I explain the importance of investing in what we can control, share two opportunities we have in this moment, and offer six words to cultivate spiritual health in the midst of disruption. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-3112420 Tue, 24 Mar 2020 14:00:00 -0700 898 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, 4 2 full false Coronavirus, a Crisis + Mental Health Coronavirus, a Crisis + Mental Health We are all living through an unprecedented crisis. This global pandemic is reshaping the way we live our lives. Many of us are feeling a little unsettled, stressed, and anxious. How do we remain mentally healthy in this new reality? In this episode, I explain the anatomy of a crisis and offer five tips to remain mentally healthy during a crisis. 

]]> We are all living through an unprecedented crisis. This global pandemic is reshaping the way we live our lives. Many of us are feeling a little unsettled, stressed, and anxious. How do we remain mentally healthy in this new reality? In this episode, I explain the anatomy of a crisis and offer five tips to remain mentally healthy during a crisis. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-3040933 Tue, 17 Mar 2020 16:00:00 -0700 1185 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, pandemic, coronavirus, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, 4 1 full false Juli + Christian Wilson: Anthem of Hope Juli + Christian Wilson: Anthem of Hope Jarid Wilson was a  voice of hope in Christianity to so many people walking through Mental Health conditions. He shared openly about his own personal struggles with anxiety and depression. In September of 2019, Jarid passed away by suicide. In this episode, Juli Wilson and Christian Wilson share their story, their commitment to carry on Jarid's legacy, and the incredible work they are doing with Anthem of Hope—a faith-centered organization dedicated to amplifying hope for those battling brokenness, depression, anxiety, self-harm, addiction and suicide.

]]> Jarid Wilson was a  voice of hope in Christianity to so many people walking through Mental Health conditions. He shared openly about his own personal struggles with anxiety and depression. In September of 2019, Jarid passed away by suicide. In this episode, Juli Wilson and Christian Wilson share their story, their commitment to carry on Jarid's legacy, and the incredible work they are doing with Anthem of Hope—a faith-centered organization dedicated to amplifying hope for those battling brokenness, depression, anxiety, self-harm, addiction and suicide.

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2971846 Tue, 10 Mar 2020 08:00:00 -0700 3409 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicide, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, C 3 15 full false My Story: Leading while Suffering, 02 My Story: Leading while Suffering, 02 How do you keep moving forward as a human and leader when you feel weary and numb inside? In this episode, I share my experience of coming to a point of feeling numb inside after years of suffering, and practical lessons I learned along the way. 

]]> How do you keep moving forward as a human and leader when you feel weary and numb inside? In this episode, I share my experience of coming to a point of feeling numb inside after years of suffering, and practical lessons I learned along the way. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2907475 Tue, 03 Mar 2020 13:00:00 -0800 851 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, parenting 3 14 full false My Story: Leading while Suffering, 01 My Story: Leading while Suffering, 01 How do you lead people while you are suffering? After living through long term suffering, my wife and I learned a lot about navigating this complex reality. In this episode, I share practical lessons to help you navigate personal or family suffering while leading. 

]]> How do you lead people while you are suffering? After living through long term suffering, my wife and I learned a lot about navigating this complex reality. In this episode, I share practical lessons to help you navigate personal or family suffering while leading. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2841370 Tue, 25 Feb 2020 13:00:00 -0800 833 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible 3 13 full false Xavier Brasseur: Fear, Insecurity + Leading Xavier Brasseur: Fear, Insecurity + Leading  All of us have experienced fear and insecurity. These are real and challenging mental and emotional experiences. How do we filter through our fears and insecurities in a healthy way, so that they do not overtake our mental, emotional, and relational health? How do we understand these concepts and not feel shame about them as followers of Jesus? In this episode, Xavier Brasseur and I talk about our own experiences with fear and insecurity, give a framework for each, and share tools to help you not be overtaken by them. 

]]>  All of us have experienced fear and insecurity. These are real and challenging mental and emotional experiences. How do we filter through our fears and insecurities in a healthy way, so that they do not overtake our mental, emotional, and relational health? How do we understand these concepts and not feel shame about them as followers of Jesus? In this episode, Xavier Brasseur and I talk about our own experiences with fear and insecurity, give a framework for each, and share tools to help you not be overtaken by them. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2776012 Tue, 18 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0800 2609 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, fear, insecurity 3 12 full false Dave Hughes: When Your Child Suffers Dave Hughes: When Your Child Suffers Suffering is hard when you are personally facing it. Even more challenging is watching your child suffer. Today's episode is a raw must listen to story of hope amidst pain. In this episode, Dave Hughes shares his journey of watching his daughter face countless life altering medical conditions. He opens up about the challenges his family faced, what he learned from his daughter, and offers wisdom for parents who are facing the reality of watching their child suffer. 

]]> Suffering is hard when you are personally facing it. Even more challenging is watching your child suffer. Today's episode is a raw must listen to story of hope amidst pain. In this episode, Dave Hughes shares his journey of watching his daughter face countless life altering medical conditions. He opens up about the challenges his family faced, what he learned from his daughter, and offers wisdom for parents who are facing the reality of watching their child suffer. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2716438 Tue, 11 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0800 2305 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, parenting 3 11 full false When You Feel Like Quitting When You Feel Like Quitting Life and leadership can be exhausting, overwhelming, and discouraging. At times we feel like quitting. However, quitting is never the right decision. In this episode, I talk about how to respond to these thoughts, and give seven steps to become practically resilient. 

]]> Life and leadership can be exhausting, overwhelming, and discouraging. At times we feel like quitting. However, quitting is never the right decision. In this episode, I talk about how to respond to these thoughts, and give seven steps to become practically resilient. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2654068 Mon, 03 Feb 2020 22:00:00 -0800 860 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, burnout 3 10 full false Kobe, Tragedy + Losing a Hero Kobe, Tragedy + Losing a Hero The tragic death of Kobe Bryant, his daughter, and seven other victims in a helicopter accident sent our culture into a state of shock, mourning, and grief. How could this happen? How could a hero die so suddenly? How could so many young girls lose their lives in an instant? In this episode, I talk about my love for Kobe, why he was such an inspiration to my life, and share thoughts on processing tragedy and loss. 

]]> The tragic death of Kobe Bryant, his daughter, and seven other victims in a helicopter accident sent our culture into a state of shock, mourning, and grief. How could this happen? How could a hero die so suddenly? How could so many young girls lose their lives in an instant? In this episode, I talk about my love for Kobe, why he was such an inspiration to my life, and share thoughts on processing tragedy and loss. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2605528 Tue, 28 Jan 2020 19:00:00 -0800 1118 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, Lakers, crisis, leadership, leaders, basketball, Kobe Bryant, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, tragedy 3 9 full false Healthy Rhythms + Leading Healthy Rhythms + Leading We live in a fast paced, frenetic, and overloaded culture. Leadership only intensifies this reality. Instead of letting the demands around us to dictate our life rhythms, we need to re-engineer our lives by proactively choosing to build our life around healthy rhythms. Healthy rhythms are life giving, and give us fuel to run the marathon of life and leadership. In this episode, I lay out four categories of healthy rhythms for life and leadership.

]]> We live in a fast paced, frenetic, and overloaded culture. Leadership only intensifies this reality. Instead of letting the demands around us to dictate our life rhythms, we need to re-engineer our lives by proactively choosing to build our life around healthy rhythms. Healthy rhythms are life giving, and give us fuel to run the marathon of life and leadership. In this episode, I lay out four categories of healthy rhythms for life and leadership.

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2547709 Tue, 21 Jan 2020 14:00:00 -0800 1611 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, burnout 3 8 full false Burnout + Leading Burnout + Leading Burnout is an epidemic in our culture. Leaders are facing symptoms of burnout, and wondering how to navigate a path out of this overwhelming and exhausting state. In this episode, I talk about my story of burnout, explain what burnout is, and give a pathway to re-engineer your life toward a healthy and thriving future. 

]]> Burnout is an epidemic in our culture. Leaders are facing symptoms of burnout, and wondering how to navigate a path out of this overwhelming and exhausting state. In this episode, I talk about my story of burnout, explain what burnout is, and give a pathway to re-engineer your life toward a healthy and thriving future. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2489275 Tue, 14 Jan 2020 07:00:00 -0800 996 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, burnout 3 7 full false Diane Comer: He Speaks in Silence Diane Comer: He Speaks in Silence All of us experience suffering. Some of us experience long term suffering. What happens when you are a leader experiencing long term suffering that reshapes your life? In this episode, Diane Comer shares her story of life altering suffering and how she found intimacy with God after losing her hearing, as well as lessons she learned through suffering and leadership. 

]]> All of us experience suffering. Some of us experience long term suffering. What happens when you are a leader experiencing long term suffering that reshapes your life? In this episode, Diane Comer shares her story of life altering suffering and how she found intimacy with God after losing her hearing, as well as lessons she learned through suffering and leadership. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2305376 Tue, 17 Dec 2019 17:00:00 -0800 2461 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar 3 6 full false Xavier Brasseur: Emotional Health + Leading Xavier Brasseur: Emotional Health + Leading Emotional health is essential for effective leadership. How do we become emotionally healthy leaders? In this episode, Xavier Brasseur and I talk through our own stories around emotional health, discuss the anatomy of emotions, and give practical steps to becoming emotionally healthy. 

]]> Emotional health is essential for effective leadership. How do we become emotionally healthy leaders? In this episode, Xavier Brasseur and I talk through our own stories around emotional health, discuss the anatomy of emotions, and give practical steps to becoming emotionally healthy. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2256869 Tue, 10 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0800 2910 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar 3 5 full false Jesse Lusko: Burnout, Bipolar + Finding Hope Jesse Lusko: Burnout, Bipolar + Finding Hope How do you navigate burnout, depression and bipolar as a leader? Jesse Lusko shares his story and the lessons he learned as he navigated burnout, depression and bipolar while leading a thriving church. 

]]> How do you navigate burnout, depression and bipolar as a leader? Jesse Lusko shares his story and the lessons he learned as he navigated burnout, depression and bipolar while leading a thriving church. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2213102 Tue, 03 Dec 2019 06:00:00 -0800 2037 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar 3 4 full false How to Support Suffering Leaders How to Support Suffering Leaders How can we support leaders when they are suffering? In this episode, I talk about false expectations around leaders who suffer, paint a picture of the pressures they face while suffering, and give twelve ways that you can support a leader who is suffering. 

]]> How can we support leaders when they are suffering? In this episode, I talk about false expectations around leaders who suffer, paint a picture of the pressures they face while suffering, and give twelve ways that you can support a leader who is suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2170055 Mon, 25 Nov 2019 23:00:00 -0800 937 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar 3 3 full false John Mark Comer: Hurry, Stress + Leading John Mark Comer: Hurry, Stress + Leading When we look at successful leaders, we often view their life through the lens of idealism. We think that they have everything figured out, which is never the case. In this episode, John Mark Comer joins me to talk about leading a mega-church, facing mental health challenges and burnout, and how he reoriented his life around healthy rhythms that he saw in the life of Jesus. This all laid the groundwork for his new book, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. 

You can find more info about John Mark here. 

]]> When we look at successful leaders, we often view their life through the lens of idealism. We think that they have everything figured out, which is never the case. In this episode, John Mark Comer joins me to talk about leading a mega-church, facing mental health challenges and burnout, and how he reoriented his life around healthy rhythms that he saw in the life of Jesus. This all laid the groundwork for his new book, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. 

You can find more info about John Mark here. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2119695 Tue, 19 Nov 2019 12:00:00 -0800 2058 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar 3 2 full false Shame, Suffering + Leading Shame, Suffering + Leading Leadership is hard. It comes with unique complexities. Sometimes we forget that we are human as we experience the weight of stress, anxiety, depression, and suffering. In this episode, I discuss the common struggles leaders face around Mental Health + Suffering, and the shame we feel in light of these struggles. I offer a pathway forward and deconstruct the lies of shame.   

]]> Leadership is hard. It comes with unique complexities. Sometimes we forget that we are human as we experience the weight of stress, anxiety, depression, and suffering. In this episode, I discuss the common struggles leaders face around Mental Health + Suffering, and the shame we feel in light of these struggles. I offer a pathway forward and deconstruct the lies of shame.   

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-2056188 Tue, 12 Nov 2019 16:00:00 -0800 1059 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar, l 3 1 full false Trailer 03 Trailer 03 Welcome to Better Days, Season 3. Better Days is a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and the hope we have for Better Days ahead. 

In Season 3, we will be hearing stories from leaders who have faced suffering or mental health challenges, and glean from the lessons they learned along the way. Throughout season 3, I will also be sharing my story as a leader suffering and the lessoned I have learned.  

]]> Welcome to Better Days, Season 3. Better Days is a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and the hope we have for Better Days ahead. 

In Season 3, we will be hearing stories from leaders who have faced suffering or mental health challenges, and glean from the lessons they learned along the way. Throughout season 3, I will also be sharing my story as a leader suffering and the lessoned I have learned.  

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1998766 Tue, 05 Nov 2019 06:00:00 -0800 153 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, therapy, hope, pastor, self help, crisis, leadership, leaders, public figures, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar, l 3 trailer false Complexity of Suffering as a Leader Complexity of Suffering as a Leader Being a leader or public figure and suffering has always been challenging territory. In this episode, I discuss the unique challenges leaders face when living through personal suffering or experiencing mental health conditions. I offer some encouraging thoughts that I have learned along the way. 

This is the final episode of Season Two, and a preview into Season Three. 

]]> Being a leader or public figure and suffering has always been challenging territory. In this episode, I discuss the unique challenges leaders face when living through personal suffering or experiencing mental health conditions. I offer some encouraging thoughts that I have learned along the way. 

This is the final episode of Season Two, and a preview into Season Three. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1646818 Tue, 03 Sep 2019 17:00:00 -0700 810 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, stigmas, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 18 full false What Is Hope? What Is Hope? Hope is an appealing word to those who are suffering. How we frame the idea of hope is crucial. In this episode, I talk about popular ideas of hope that are unhelpful, and then I explain Honest Hope--what I believe to be the true concept of hope.    

]]> Hope is an appealing word to those who are suffering. How we frame the idea of hope is crucial. In this episode, I talk about popular ideas of hope that are unhelpful, and then I explain Honest Hope--what I believe to be the true concept of hope.    

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1610479 Tue, 27 Aug 2019 09:00:00 -0700 762 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, stigmas, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 17 full false The Anxious Mind The Anxious Mind Patterns of thinking are formed intentionally and unintentionally. When it comes to living with an anxious mind, it is important to begin to evaluate patterns of thinking and what has formed those patterns over time. In this episode, I talk about the anxious mind, the role of prayer, and how to intentionally form new patterns of thinking. 

]]> Patterns of thinking are formed intentionally and unintentionally. When it comes to living with an anxious mind, it is important to begin to evaluate patterns of thinking and what has formed those patterns over time. In this episode, I talk about the anxious mind, the role of prayer, and how to intentionally form new patterns of thinking. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1580089 Tue, 20 Aug 2019 16:00:00 -0700 962 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, stigmas, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 16 full false Deconstructing Stigmas Deconstructing Stigmas There are so many false ideas about mental health + suffering. In this episode, I deconstruct a number of stigmas about mental health and suffering through the ancient story of Job. 

]]> There are so many false ideas about mental health + suffering. In this episode, I deconstruct a number of stigmas about mental health and suffering through the ancient story of Job. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1547059 Tue, 13 Aug 2019 17:00:00 -0700 899 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, stigmas, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 15 full false Interview with Kelli Murray Interview with Kelli Murray Sometimes we view people who are successful as immune from suffering and pain. In this episode, I interview Kelli Murray. Kelli is the owner and designer of Rylee + Cru and Quincy Mae, two successful children's clothing brands. In the midst of her success, she has faced personal pain and suffering.

]]> Sometimes we view people who are successful as immune from suffering and pain. In this episode, I interview Kelli Murray. Kelli is the owner and designer of Rylee + Cru and Quincy Mae, two successful children's clothing brands. In the midst of her success, she has faced personal pain and suffering.

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1512238 Tue, 06 Aug 2019 09:00:00 -0700 2545 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, moms, kids, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, fashion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 14 full false Interview with Dominic Done Interview with Dominic Done How should we think about our doubts? Some people demonize doubts, and others idolize  doubts. But there must be a better way forward. In this episode, I interview Dominic Done about his book When Faith Fails as he offers a better way forward for our doubts.  

]]> How should we think about our doubts? Some people demonize doubts, and others idolize  doubts. But there must be a better way forward. In this episode, I interview Dominic Done about his book When Faith Fails as he offers a better way forward for our doubts.  

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1480570 Tue, 30 Jul 2019 10:00:00 -0700 1975 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, doubt, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 13 full false Communicating with Those Suffering Communicating with Those Suffering How do we talk to people who are suffering? In this episode, I offer six thoughts about healthy communication with people who are suffering. 

]]> How do we talk to people who are suffering? In this episode, I offer six thoughts about healthy communication with people who are suffering. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1448908 Tue, 23 Jul 2019 12:00:00 -0700 741 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 12 full false Better Days Q&A Better Days Q&A In this episode, I respond to questions from Better Days listeners about Mental Health + Suffering. I answer questions about meditation, exercise, responding to someone close to you who believes stigmas, having faith in the midst of mental health and suffering, what to do if God does not heal you, and looking below the surface instead of focusing on symptoms. 

]]> In this episode, I respond to questions from Better Days listeners about Mental Health + Suffering. I answer questions about meditation, exercise, responding to someone close to you who believes stigmas, having faith in the midst of mental health and suffering, what to do if God does not heal you, and looking below the surface instead of focusing on symptoms. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1419484 Tue, 16 Jul 2019 13:00:00 -0700 1531 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar, love, millennials, gen z, rest 2 11 full false Life Is Imperfect Life Is Imperfect In this episode, I talk about the lie of perfectionism, how life as humans is not perfect, how being flawed is normal, and give a few thoughts deconstructing the mindset of perfectionism. 

]]> In this episode, I talk about the lie of perfectionism, how life as humans is not perfect, how being flawed is normal, and give a few thoughts deconstructing the mindset of perfectionism. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1389241 Tue, 09 Jul 2019 11:00:00 -0700 757 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 10 full false Thoughts about Anxiety Thoughts about Anxiety In this episode, I share five thoughts about anxiety. I talk about false stigmas around anxiety, false views and teachings about anxiety, and tools and help for anxiety. 

]]> In this episode, I share five thoughts about anxiety. I talk about false stigmas around anxiety, false views and teachings about anxiety, and tools and help for anxiety. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1359592 Tue, 02 Jul 2019 11:00:00 -0700 1146 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 9 full false Thoughts about Depression Thoughts about Depression In this episode, I share eight thoughts about depression. I talk about the challenge and confusing nature of depression, dismantle some false viewpoints in Christianity about depression, and end with some hopeful words for those of you who are facing depression. 

]]> In this episode, I share eight thoughts about depression. I talk about the challenge and confusing nature of depression, dismantle some false viewpoints in Christianity about depression, and end with some hopeful words for those of you who are facing depression. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1329157 Tue, 25 Jun 2019 10:00:00 -0700 1251 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 8 full false Better Days Q&A Better Days Q&A In this episode, I respond to questions from Better Days listeners about Mental Health + Suffering. I answer questions about how to respond to guilt and irrational feelings, challenging family relationships and boundaries, anger, and is it ok for Christians to take anti-anxiety medications. 

]]> In this episode, I respond to questions from Better Days listeners about Mental Health + Suffering. I answer questions about how to respond to guilt and irrational feelings, challenging family relationships and boundaries, anger, and is it ok for Christians to take anti-anxiety medications. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1297858 Tue, 18 Jun 2019 09:00:00 -0700 1689 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence , 2 7 full false Anatomy of Emotions, P 02 Anatomy of Emotions, P 02 In this episode, I talk about the anatomy of emotions. I discuss where emotions come from, the original design of emotions, and offer a construct for emotional health. 

]]> In this episode, I talk about the anatomy of emotions. I discuss where emotions come from, the original design of emotions, and offer a construct for emotional health. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1265750 Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:00:00 -0700 872 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 6 full false Anatomy of Emotions, P 01 Anatomy of Emotions, P 01 In this episode, I talk about the anatomy of emotions. I discuss emotions and our culture, how families suppress emotions, the nature of emotions, and emotional intelligence. 

]]> In this episode, I talk about the anatomy of emotions. I discuss emotions and our culture, how families suppress emotions, the nature of emotions, and emotional intelligence. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1236899 Tue, 04 Jun 2019 11:00:00 -0700 967 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, emotions, emotional health, emotional intelligence 2 5 full false Interview with Hannah & Rousseaux Interview with Hannah & Rousseaux In this episode, I interview Hannah and Rousseaux about Hannah’s long journey of suffering. We talk about the hardships of long term suffering, various challenges she has faced, and what has been helpful. Her husband, Rousseaux, shares a raw story about failing to understand her and what he has learned about loving her in her pain. 

]]> In this episode, I interview Hannah and Rousseaux about Hannah’s long journey of suffering. We talk about the hardships of long term suffering, various challenges she has faced, and what has been helpful. Her husband, Rousseaux, shares a raw story about failing to understand her and what he has learned about loving her in her pain. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1203890 Tue, 28 May 2019 09:00:00 -0700 1560 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar, love, millennials, gen z, rest 2 4 full false Better Days Q&A Better Days Q&A In this episode, I respond to questions from Better Days listeners about Mental Health + Suffering. I answer questions about long term suffering, forgiving people who treat you wrong in suffering, stress in college, and more. 

]]> In this episode, I respond to questions from Better Days listeners about Mental Health + Suffering. I answer questions about long term suffering, forgiving people who treat you wrong in suffering, stress in college, and more. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1172756 Mon, 20 May 2019 22:00:00 -0700 1875 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar, love, millennials, gen z, rest 2 3 full false Proactive with Mental Health Proactive with Mental Health In this episode, I talk about what mental health is and how we can be proactive with our mental health. I offer practical suggestions for being proactive with your mental health. 

]]> In this episode, I talk about what mental health is and how we can be proactive with our mental health. I offer practical suggestions for being proactive with your mental health. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1135526 Tue, 14 May 2019 11:00:00 -0700 741 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar, love 2 2 full false Trailer 02 Trailer 02 Welcome to Better Days, Season 2. This is a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and the hope we have for Better Days ahead. 

]]> Welcome to Better Days, Season 2. This is a podcast about Mental Health + Suffering, and the hope we have for Better Days ahead. 

]]> Wesley Towne Buzzsprout-1071029 Tue, 30 Apr 2019 12:00:00 -0700 102 mental health, suffering, depression, anxiety, PTSD, health, mental health awareness, Jesus, human, psychology, hope, help, pastor, self help, crisis, loss, relationships, christianity, religion, Bible, stress, bipolar, love 2 trailer false