Holistic and Holy

Have you ever wondered how spirituality can intertwine with mental health to guide us on a path of self-discovery and healing? Join your hosts Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver as we open our hearts and share the deeply personal drives that led us to create 'Holistic and Holy.' Our latest conversation is a celebration of the growth and revelations we've experienced along this journey,...

We've all faced moments that shook us to our core, where we stand at the crossroads of bitterness or growth. Join us as we embark on a journey through the intricate world of resilience and the remarkable transformation known as post-traumatic growth. This conversation delves into how our darkest experiences can unexpectedly illuminate new pathways, shaking the foundations of our relationships...

When Natalie Craver and I, Chad McSwain, first grappled with the reality of LGBTQIA+ acceptance in our lives and ministries, we knew it was a conversation worth having. With Natalie's insights as a licensed professional counselor and my pastoral perspective, we've come together to bring you a heartfelt exploration of what it means to truly embrace compassion and understanding in the chur...

Ever felt like navigating adult relationships is like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube in the dark? Well, you're not alone. Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver here, opening up about the trials and triumphs of forming genuine connections in today's world. Reflecting on our own experiences, we acknowledge how the shadows of our childhood and the example set by our parents can heavily influ...

Have you ever found yourself grappling with pain where you least expected it—in the very faith community that was supposed to offer sanctuary? Alongside United Methodist pastor Chad McSwain and licensed professional counselor Natalie Craver, we unearth the raw and real stories of religious trauma. This episode promises a journey of understanding, empathy, and a roadmap for anyone searching for hea...

Imagine carrying around an invisible suitcase from your childhood, stuffed with all the unspoken rules, roles, and expectations of your family of origin. Ever wondered how this hidden baggage influences your relationships, your parenting style, or even how you respond to your favorite sitcoms? Well, buckle up. We're about to crack open these weighty suitcases together and make sense of what&a...

Ever grappled with discussing sexual desires openly with your partner? Or perhaps, you've wondered how to maintain a healthy sexual relationship amidst life's stresses and changes? Join us, Chad and Natalie, on this journey of exploring intimacy, communication, and sexuality in relationships. We share our personal experiences and insights, taking the plunge into the much-needed, yet ofte...

What if we told you that grief, a topic often avoided, could be a path to healing and growth? Natalie and Chad expose the complexities of grief, painting a vivid picture of this dense emotion we all inevitably experience. We compare it to an endless highway, constantly changing, yet persistently stretching ahead. We grapple with the societal tendency to shy away from those engulfed in sadness, and...

What if I told you that everyone has experienced trauma, even if it doesn't seem significant? It might not be a catastrophic event, but how we process our experiences and the narratives we create around them leave an indelible impact. We embark on a profound exploration of trauma, discussing its intricate connection with our sense of control and the irrational negative beliefs that ensue. The...

Join us on an intimate exploration of shame and its many faces. Leveraging personal anecdotes and real-life experiences, Chad McSwain, a United Methodist pastor, and Natalie Craver, a licensed professional counselor, take you on an enlightening journey into understanding this profound emotion. This deep dive into shame is a safe space for self-reflection, providing tools to navigate the spiraling...

In this podcast episode, Chad and Natalie talk about anxiety, drawing from their own experiences and discussing its physical and emotional effects. They explore various triggers and differentiate between worry and anxiety. They provide practical techniques for managing anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises and grounding methods. The hosts also emphasize the role of faith and the importance of...

Are you shackled by the chains of shame? We're here to show you that it's not only possible to break free, but absolutely essential for living a full and authentic life. In this candid and introspective discussion, we pull back the curtain on the often uncomfortable topic of shame - its impact on our lives, mental health, and spirituality. Drawing from the pioneering work of Brené Brown,...

In this episode of the Holistic and Holy podcast, Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver discuss the significance of understanding our own personal story. They explore the impact of movies and TV shows on our lives, especially during anxious times. The hosts delve into reframing our stories and giving ourselves grace, highlighting the importance of understanding our own journeys. They also touch on the r...

Are you ready to unfold the complexities of your family dynamics and their impact on your mental health? It's time to break free from the childhood roles we often fall back into when reuniting with families, and truly embrace the person you've become. Join your friendly guides, Chad McSwain and Natalie Craver, as we share real-life stories, professional insights, and practical tips on ho...

Discover Holistic and Holy by checking out our origin story! Before there was a podcast, Chad interviewed Natalie at Whitesboro United Methodist Church. This is the perfect way to jump into the podcast and get a preview of the kinds of topics we talk about on Holistic and Holy!  Here is what we dive into during this interview…  Have you ever wondered how past traumas can shape your present and fut...