Coffee with CAPS

Ever heard the phrase “don’t settle” when it comes to dating? In this episode, Sam and Aaron flip that idea on its head and talk about why settling — in the right way — might actually be the healthiest move for your relationships. From dealing with FOMO and “situationships” to figuring out values, commitment, and what it really means to choose someone long-term, they unpack the messy parts of dati...

Kicking off Season 3 of Coffee with CAPS, Sam and Aaron dive into the messy, funny, and surprisingly deep question of what makes fun real. From board games to pickup basketball, hiking trails to binge-watching marathons, they swap stories and challenge each other on what counts as energizing, connection-building fun — and what just leaves you feeling empty. Along the way, they explore how embracin...

It’s graduation season, and in the final episode of Season2, Sam and Aaron tackle the big questions facing college seniors: What comes after graduation? How do you manage expectations, career decisions, finances, and faith during such a major life transition? This conversation is all aboutsetting healthy goals, coping with change, and trusting God through the unknown. Whether you're stepping i...

In this episode of Coffee with CAPS , Sam and Aaronaddress some of the most common misconceptions about counseling — particularlythose that often discourage college students from seeking support. They discussmyths such as the belief that counseling is only for people with serious mentalillness, that counselors simply give advice, or that needing help is a sign ofweakness. Drawing from their profes...

In this candid episode, Sam and Aaron talk about the real-life ups and downs of growing up as a PK. Aaron shares his personal story—what it was like living under constant expectations, struggling with authenticity, and learning to trust others. They unpack the hidden pressures that come with being in the spotlight at church, the emotional toll it cantake, and the journey toward finding your own id...

In this episode of Coffee with CAPS , Sam and Aaron explore how attachment styles shape our relationships, self-perception, and even our view of God. They break down the four major attachment styles, discuss their impact, and offer practical insights on improving emotional connections. Whether you're looking to understand yourself better or strengthen your relationships, this episode has valua...

Is living together before marriage really a good idea? In this episode, Sam and Aaron discuss the popular belief that cohabitation is the perfect "test run" for marriage, exploring why so many couples choose to move in together, the hidden downsides, and what both statistics and Christian values have to say about it. From false security to unexpected challenges, they uncover how cohabitation can a...

How do you actually move on from a breakup? How long does it take to heal? Do guys and girls handle breakups differently? And do you  really  need closure?  In this episode of  Coffee with CAPS , Sam and Aaron unpack the emotional rollercoaster of heartbreak — why it feels so heavy, the cultural myths that can slow down healing, and the best ways to actually move forward. They share practical stra...

Love is in the air... or is it? Dating can be exciting, confusing, and sometimes downright messy. Sam and Aaron break down the key signs of a healthy relationship, warning signs to watch for, and major red flags you should never ignore. Whether you're happily single, deep in the dating game, or just love a good relationship rant, this one's for you! Join us every Tuesday for fresh discussions on m...

You know those weird, random, or even negative thoughts that just won’t leave you alone?  This week, Sam and Aaron sit down with counselor Stephen Ciucci to break down intrusive thoughts — why they happen, what they mean (or  don’t  mean), and how to keep them from taking over. If your brain ever feels like a chaotic group chat, this episode is for you!  Join us every Tuesday for fresh discussions...

Coffee with CAPS  kicks off the spring semester with an insightful episode on navigating the challenges of returning to campus life. Sam and Aaron discuss transitioning from holiday mode back to college routines, sharing practical tips for managing back-to-school anxiety, maintaining balance, and setting meaningful personal and academic goals. Start your semester strong with this uplifting and enc...

After months of living on your own and finding your stride, heading back home for Christmas break can feel like stepping into a different world. In this final episode of Season 1, Sam and Aaron explore what it means to reconnect with family after a semester away. From managing shifting family expectations to rebuilding strained relationships, this episode dives deep into the reality of the holiday...

Sam and Aaron, joined by CAPS Executive Director Mike Kunzinger, dive into a thoughtful and engaging conversation about why the church still matters for college students today. They explore how the church has evolved over the years, from its early foundations to its role in today's fast-paced and often skeptical culture. They tackle topics like faith, doubt, and the process of deconstruction — bre...

This Thanksgiving, Sam and Aaron are talking all about gratitude and how it can change your perspective in college. They share how being thankful can help lower stress, ease anxiety, and bring you closer to God. Using personal stories and biblical insights, they'll give you simple tips for practicing gratitude — whether it’s journaling, setting reminders, or focusing on the positives during tough...

Now that you're in college and moving into adulthood, what does it really mean to set boundaries with your parents? Sam and Aaron talk about how to honor your parents in a way that aligns with Scripture while also making space for your own independence. Hear tips for handling those tricky conversations about expectations, dealing with baggage from the past, and finding a balance that works for...

How do you navigate grief and loss during college? What happens when you face changes — whether from the loss of a loved one, the end of a meaningful relationship, or shifts in family dynamics?  In this episode, Sam and Aaron welcome CAPS counselor Leah Horton, who shares her personal journey through sudden and devastating losses during her college years. Together, they offer a compassionate look...

In this episode, Sam and Aaron talk about how to build friendships that add positivity and support to your life in college and grad school. Breaking down the difference between life-giving and life-draining friendships, they share tips on recognizing healthy connections and avoiding relationships that bring you down. If you're looking to strengthen your social circle with meaningful connection...

Why should you care about politics this election season? How do political issues like student loans, the cost of living, and job prospects affect your future? And how can you talk politics with friends or family without feeling anxious or damaging relationships? In this special election episode, Sam and Aaron talk about why politics matter for students and how to stay engaged without getting overw...

Sam and Aaron team up with campus counselor Ryan White to unpack the lasting impact of evangelical purity culture. They explore how purity pledges and strict relationship rules from the 90s and early 2000s shaped young Christians' views on sexuality and self-worth. While well-meaning, these teachings often led to struggles with shame and identity. Whether you grew up with purity rings, True Lo...

Sam and Aaron sit down with Dr. Greg Mears to talk about why building a strong biblical worldview is so important. They explore why a biblical perspective matters, the challenges college students face when questioning their faith, and how worldviews shape major life decisions. Dr. Mears shares personal stories and tips on how to ask tough questions while staying rooted in your beliefs. Whether you...

What does forgiveness really mean? How does it affect your mental health, and what does the Bible have to say about it? In this episode, Sam sits down with Dr. Jichan Kim from LU’s Health Psychology Department to dive deep into the topic of forgiveness. Dr. Kim discusses the challenges we all face when it comes to forgiving others—and even ourselves—and clears up some common myths, like whether fo...

This episode is all about control — what it means to have self-control and understanding who is truly in control of your life. Sam and Aaron explore the concept of “locus of control” and how it impacts stress, relationships, and mental health. From managing tough situations with friends and family to dealing with anxiety, tune in for practical tips on focusing on what’s within your control—your th...

In this episode, Sam sits down with CAPS counselors Dr. James Honeycutt and Bekah Jarman to talk about spiritual disciplines and how they can fit into the busy lives of students. They share their own stories about growing up with different faith backgrounds and discuss how practices like prayer, journaling, silence, and solitude can help students connect with God, manage stress, and find peace. Wh...

Struggling to manage your money in college? Wondering how finances impact your mental health? In this episode, Sam and Aaron break down the basics of budgeting, exploring the difference between needs and wants, the reality of student loans, and how financial stress can affect your well-being. Listen in for practical tips to help you take control of your finances, make informed decisions, and build...

In this episode, Sam sits down with Emily and Lina, eating disorder specialists at CAPS, to talk about body image—something that impacts all of us, especially in college. They break down how social media shapes our perceptions of diet, exercise, and self-worth, often leading to harmful behaviors and disordered eating. Along with sharing tips on how to navigate these pressures with a balanced persp...