Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s conversation, Michael is joined by Dr. J.R. Briggs, author of the book The Art of Asking Better Questions: Pursuing Stronger Relationships, Healthier Leadership and Deeper Faith. Together, they explore why the questions we ask—of God, ourselves, and each other—are so central to personal transformation, deep connection, and spiritual growth.

Drawing from years of research, lived experience, and insights from both ancient and modern sources, J.R. Briggs unpacks how better questions (not just more of them) shape the quality of our lives and relationships. They dig into why vulnerability, humility, curiosity, and wisdom are essentials for good questions, and how great question-askers build trust, intimacy, and growth.

The conversation is rich with practical tips, stories, and wisdom on becoming people who don’t just demand answers, but who pursue lives oriented around questions of substance and consequence. Whether you’re a leader, friend, partner, or simply someone seeking deeper relationships and faith, you’ll walk away inspired to ask, listen, and connect in new ways.

Support the show

ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:
- Follow us on YouTube
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
- Like us on Facebook
- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter
- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today, we bring you an encore presentation featuring a conversation between our host, Michael John Cusick, and Rev. Dr. Dennis Edwards. Known for his deep theological insights and compassionate pastoral work, Dr. Edwards dives into the concept of restoration, exploring its vital role in enriching faith amidst life's complexities.

In this episode, Michael shares about the ministry of Restoring the Soul. Drawing from his journey through trauma, addiction, and healing, Michael passionately discusses the holistic nature of the soul and the crucial process of restoring it to wholeness.

Dr. Edwards and Michael cover many compelling topics, from the unity within the Trinity to the importance of embodied spirituality and radical humility in healing personal and societal divisions. Prepare to be inspired and challenged as they unpack what it truly means to close the gap between belief and experience.

Support the show

ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:
- Follow us on YouTube
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
- Like us on Facebook
- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter
- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael welcomes back Bette Dickinson to dig into the wisdom behind her new book, "The Art of Vine Making: Spiritual Flourishing in a Productivity Driven Culture." Together, they explore the rich metaphor of the vine and branches from John 15—not just as a theological concept, but as an intentional, relational process that mirrors the art of winemaking.

Bette Dickinson shares the story of her friendship with a real-life vine dresser, drawing deep parallels between tending vineyards and the journey of spiritual formation. Listeners will discover how God’s nurturing presence and attentive love invite us away from the relentless urge to be productive and towards true flourishing—where quality, process, rest, and relational attunement matter more than mere quantity or output.

Through personal stories, practical contrasts between productivity and flourishing, and profound insights into seasons of dormancy and growth, this episode offers a compassionate, hope-filled vision for anyone longing to abide more deeply in God’s love.

ON THE WEB: bettedickinson.com

Support the show

ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:
- Follow us on YouTube
- Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS
- Like us on Facebook
- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter
- Follow Michael on Twitter
- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com

Thanks for listening!