The Crabby Pastor

Send a text Join me as I sit down with Janyne McConnaughey, author of Trauma in the Pews: The Impact on Faith and Spiritual Practices. We're about to pull back the curtains on the pervasive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly on those in ministry leadership roles. Our conversation takes a deep look into the concept of ‘internal family systems’ therapy and the importance of self-reg...

Send a text This week, I had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Janyne McConaughey, author of Trauma in the Pews . Together, we peeled back the layers of misconceptions surrounding trauma, particularly how it's perceived in a religious context. Her book is aimed at helping ministry leaders understand how trauma  impacts the spiritual life of the majority of the people in their pews.  Janyne a...

Send a text Do you ever wonder how Pastor Appreciation Month came into being and why it can sometimes stir up a whirlwind of emotions? Go ahead, take a seat and join me, Margie Bryce, as we explore the significance, the implications, and the sometimes controversial aspects of this dedicated time. We’ll unwrap the layers of Pastor Appreciation Month and its potential to trigger both appreciation an...

Send a text I remember when I was a full-time pastor and I preached nearly 48 times a year, juggling between sermon preparations and ministry duties. Contrast that to the church I attend now, where a teaching pastor preaches no more than 26 times annually. It's a startling difference, right?  This episode is all about the wisdom gained from that disparity - the crucial lesson of self-care. It...

Send a text Just imagine a world where clergy are equipped with the tools to maintain both their physical and spiritual health as they lead their congregations. What kind of positive impact could that have on their ministry and the lives of those they serve? We've had a thought-provoking discussion with Kelly Wittich, Director of Health and Well-Being for WestPath, who offers insights into th...

Send a text Have you ever found yourself at the crux of judgment and compassion within the faith-based community? Join me as we sit down with licensed professional counselor, Kari LaFave, who illuminates the intricacies of handling crisis situations, particularly divorce, within religious spaces. Kari skillfully dissects the unique hurdles her faith-based clients face, highlighting the judgment an...

Send a text Ever wondered what the journey from burnout to recovery looks like? Well, we're diving into that very topic with Rev.  Eden Avalos shares with us about his personal journey through burnout and the steps he took toward recovery.  Reverend Avalos inspires us with his story of rediscovery. He talks about finding solace in creative outlets like writing stories and crafting personalize...

Send a text Ever found yourself struggling to balance your personal life with your spiritual responsibilities? Dr. Chris Adams and I delve into it in this podcast episode, probing the root cause of our resistance to self-care and the tendency to segregate spirituality. We shed light on the traps of unrealistic expectations and how they unknowingly drag us into an unhealthy lifestyle. Don't mi...

Send a text Do you find yourself consistently on the verge of burnout? Are you seeking a renewed sense of purpose, resilience, and self-care practices that align with your divine calling? Join us for a transformative conversation with Chris Adams, a former pastor, university educator, and psychologist with a rich lineage in pastoral work in the Church of the Nazarene.  Chris brings to the fore a f...

Send a text Picture this: a world where faith and brain science intertwine and the knowledge of both can empower us not only spiritually but biologically as well. Sounds intriguing? Sit down with me, your host Margie Bryce, and my guest Alicia Michelle, a certified neuro coach, as we guide you through this extraordinary intersection of brain science and biblical teachings. We unravel the mysteries...

Send a text Prepare to uncover the hidden importance of sleep in maintaining sustainability in ministry in our latest episode. Let's redefine self-care, starting with a good night's rest and learn to strike the ideal balance between pastoral duties and personal well-being. Join me, Margie Bryce, as I share my personal journey of stepping back from pastoral ministry to help leaders create...

Send a text This episode promises to provide deep insights as we engage in part two of our conversation with Jay Whittmeyer, executive director of the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center. As we navigate the complex labyrinth of relationships, we unravel the lesser-known ways they can unintentionally polarize relationships, resulting in a climate of anxiety and exclusion. However, it’s not all turbulenc...

Send a text Ever feel like you're struggling to connect with your congregation or maintain harmony in your ministry? Feel like you're teetering on the brink of burnout? This episode will be your lifeline. Joined by Jay Whittmeyer, the executive director of the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center, we dive into the transformative concept of self-differentiation and its profound significance in...

Send a text Ever been stuck in the "No Fun Zone"?  Let's unwrap what it's like when we unintentionally confine ourselves to this zone where work never stops. I'll share some of my own stories and encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and into the Fun Zone.  I'll challenge you to find time to do something fun, to relish and appreciate the life God has blessed...

Send a text Have you ever felt the weight of the world crushing your spirit, leaving you gasping for air, yearning for a lifeline? Ever wondered how you'd continue to function, let alone inspire others, amidst personal turmoil and global chaos? This is where Pastor Pat Robbins found himself - staring at a precipice of overwhelming loss, personal health crisis, and ministry challenges, all whi...

Send a text Promised to be an eye-opener, this enlightening conversation with Amanda Simmers, a dynamic nutrition coach and personal trainer, will challenge your preconceived notions about self-care, food, and fitness. Is it possible that the 'eat less, move more' mantra has been sabotaging your health goals? Could the pursuit of sustainability in your ministry be hampered by your dietar...

Send a text Ever felt like ministry is an uphill battle? Join me, Margie Bryce, as I chat with the insightful Rev. Beth Caulfield about her book "People Throw Rocks at Things That Shine," where she shares her wisdom on embracing the messiness that comes with following Jesus and staying true to our unique calling. Together, we dive into the spiritual battles we face in ministry and how Go...

Send a text Rant warning! Ever driven past a church sign that left you scratching your head? You're not alone! As a former marketing communications consultant (before my call to ministry), many a church sign has made me CRABBY. Today, we're tackling the too-often-overlooked topic of church signage.  Join me as we share our thoughts on how signs can be a missed opportunity and why it&apos...

Send a text When I sat down with retired pastor Sheila Bishop, I couldn't help but feel inspired by her journey of being "lured" back into ministry. What started as a visit to a small church with only five active members transformed into a beautiful story of connection, community, and sustainability. Join us as we discuss how Sheila's focus on fostering relationships led to a g...

Send a text Have you ever felt the weight of trying to achieve too much while struggling to find balance in your life and ministry? In our eye-opening conversation with Tim Gaines, we delve into his personal journey of discovering the need for rest and finding balance during his first sabbatical. As someone who thrives on achievements and being deeply involved in his community, Tim faced challenge...

Send a text For some, self-care is about what you eat and whether you exercise. Well, I do see self-care in a larger and more holistic way as maybe you can tell from this podcast. I've been resisting talking about EXERCISE, because, you know, it's such a popular topic, right? NOT. Well, here goes...  Support the show This is a GUILT-FREE zone! So here's your friendly nudge about sel...

Send a text Been having some conversations with ministry leaders… and between that and some other real-life experiences… I thought... this is a great time to talk about what the main task is for a ministry leader. Support the show This is a GUILT-FREE zone! So here's your friendly nudge about self-care and its importance for your family, friends, and those you serve in ministry. Contact info:...

Send a text I can't tell you how many ministry leaders seem to think it's a badge of honor to NOT take their vacation time. Trust me, no one is handing out medals for this. Even Jesus stepped away from the demands of the crowd to slow down and reconnect with the Father. So... here's my rant on the topic of vacation.... Support the show This is a GUILT-FREE zone! So here's your...

Send a text To me, Acts 27 reads like Murphy's Law -- if anything can go bad, it will. Yet, Paul, has learned to be content in ALL (not some) circumstances. Hmmm. How about you?  Support the show This is a GUILT-FREE zone! So here's your friendly nudge about self-care and its importance for your family, friends, and those you serve in ministry. Contact info: Email me at crabbypastor@gmai...

Send a text The Crabby Pastor goes biblical with this rendition of Elijah telling God that he has had ENOUGH! Walking through a tough time? Feeling like isolating? Listen for some practical helps.  Support the show This is a GUILT-FREE zone! So here's your friendly nudge about self-care and its importance for your family, friends, and those you serve in ministry. Contact info: Email me at cra...