Episodios

  • Varon Cantrell, MD - Health & Wellness In Focus | “Chronic Disease Prevention: Reclaiming Health in the Black Faith Community."
    Aug 18 2025
    In this episode, Pastor Bryan Hudson, DMin, will host a conversation with Varon Cantrell, MD. He is a Board Certified Internist and Pediatrician who works for a Federally Qualified Health Center whose home base is in Indianapolis, Indiana. After Medical School, he completed his Combined Residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. He then completed one year as a Chief Resident in Internal Medicine while staffing/precepting the Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency Clinic. ​ In July of 2010, Dr. Cantrell, joined a Federally Qualified Health Center in Indianapolis where he continues to work. He was the Lead Physician for the opening of a new Health Center on the Westside of Indianapolis that has grown from 1 Provider up to 7 and from 3,000 visits to over 14,000 visits in 7 years. ​ The timely topic of this episode is: “Chronic Disease Prevention: Reclaiming Health in the Black Faith Community." Join us for an empowering and solution-focused discussion on how faith, knowledge, and action can work together to transform health outcomes in our community. We’ll address the chronic diseases that disproportionately impact African Americans—such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease—and explore how churches and faith communities can be a vital partner in prevention, education, and healthy living. Through practical strategies, inspiring testimonies, and a commitment to holistic wellness, we’ll learn how to reclaim health, strengthen families, and honor God with our bodies. ​ Watch on YouTube. Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and Spotify. For program and podcast links to this and other programs, visit the New Covenant Church Health & Wellness in Focus webpage: https://www.newcovenant.org/hwif ​ Produced by Vision Communications Media LLC and Bryan Hudson, D.Min. http://visionmediaexperts.com We are affiliated with the Wellness Connection, Inc. https://www.wellnessconnectionindy.org
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    42 m
  • Dr. Stephen E. Gardner - Health & Wellness In Focus | Our topic: Coping With Grief & Loss: Light in Your Valley
    May 15 2025
    Health & Wellness In Focus Episode #19 – Coping With Grief & Loss: “Light in Your Valley”
Host: Dr. Bryan Hudson | Guest: Dr. Stephen E. Gardner Program Summary Dr. Gardner’s links: LinkedIN, www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-e-gardner-edd-ma-ct-6823b4b Everyday Consulting, www.everydayconsulting.org Crown of Hope International. www.crownofhope.org In this insightful episode of Health & Wellness In Focus, Dr. Bryan Hudson interviews Dr. Stephen E. Gardner—a pastor, theologist, veteran advocate, transformational coach, and independent scholar—on the theme “Coping With Grief & Loss: Light in Your Valley.” Key Highlights: 1. The Multifaceted Nature of Dr. Gardner’s Work: Dr. Gardner views his roles beyond the pulpit, engaging with the community on issues like death, loss, and personal transformation. His work with veterans especially involves shifting from post-traumatic stress to post-traumatic growth. 2. Understanding Grief Beyond Death: Loss includes not only death but also life transitions like job loss, shifting beliefs, or health setbacks. Grief is both emotional and neurological—highlighted by Dr. Gardner’s recommended book The Grieving Brain by Mary-Frances O’Connor. 3. The Four Tasks of Mourning (based on Dr. William Worden): Accept the Reality of the Loss – Acknowledge what has happened, even if heart and mind aren’t in sync. Process the Pain of Grief – Embrace emotions like guilt and sadness without rushing to “move on.” Adjust to a World Without the Deceased – Including identity changes, especially for spouses or long-term caregivers. Find a Way to Maintain Connection While Moving Forward – Through legacy, memory, or service. 4. Harmful Coping Practices: Telling people to “snap out of it” is unhelpful and often stems from discomfort or fear. Over-spiritualizing grief or using shallow platitudes can invalidate real feelings. 5. Integrating Faith with Mental Health: Faith is essential but must be paired with informed mental health practices. Spiritual responses should not replace therapy or professional help. Ministry of presence—being there without words—is often more healing than scripture alone. 6. Cultural Competence in Counseling: One-size-fits-all approaches fail across cultural lines. Dr. Gardner advocates for respectful, “user-centered” care that adapts to clients’ cultural and spiritual contexts. Professionals should ask: “How can I help you in a way that respects your culture?” 7. Encouraging Mental Health Careers: There's a great need for more culturally competent professionals, particularly from underrepresented communities. Churches and pastors should present these fields as mission and kingdom work. 8. Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health: Many avoid counseling due to fear of judgment or appearing “broken.” Seeking help should be normalized like seeing a doctor for a broken arm. 9. The Power of Meaning-Making: Healing accelerates when people can find purpose or meaning in their loss. Dr. Gardner shared his personal story of losing his mother at 18 and how he found strength through understanding her legacy and completing his life mission. Final Thoughts: Dr. Gardner stresses the importance of community, competent care, and courageous vulnerability when facing grief. Pastor Hudson reinforces that churches should be wellness hubs that connect people to the full range of care they need. Viewers and listeners are encouraged to share the episode to help others who may be experiencing grief or loss.
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    52 m
  • Faith McKinney – Health & Wellness In Focus | "Journey To Health: A Personal Story"
    Jan 25 2025
    Episode #16 theme: “Journey to Health: A Personal Story” Host: Dr. Bryan Hudson Guests: Faith McKinney and her health coach, Michael X. Banks Program & Podcast Website: https://www.newcovenant.org/hwif Faith McKinney Website: https://www.faithmckinney.com Michael X Banks Website: https://www.walkitout.us Summary of the Podcast: Health and Wellness in Focus with Dr. Bryan Hudson This inspiring episode shares the transformational health journey of Faith McKinney, a kidney donor, author, and caregiver who overcame significant health challenges, losing over 100 pounds and reclaiming her life. Key Highlights: Faith's Story: Kidney Donation: In 2009, Faith donated a kidney to her cousin, which heightened her awareness of the importance of health. Weight Gain and Challenges: Over the years, stress, caregiving responsibilities, and the pandemic led her weight to rise to 274 pounds. She experienced severe mobility issues and health risks, including being close to needing dialysis. Turning Point: A trip to Tennessee in 2022 highlighted her health challenges, inspiring her to make a change. She began walking and working out regularly. Health Journey: Faith initially worked with a trainer but realized that diet was more impactful than exercise in achieving sustainable weight loss. Diet and Lifestyle Changes: She adopted intermittent fasting and focused on nutritious eating, losing weight consistently at seven pounds per month. She now participates in half-marathons and advocates for walking as a path to fitness. Role of Community: Support System: Faith joined "Walk It Out America," an organization promoting health and fitness through walking and proper nutrition. The group provided accountability, encouragement, and a judgment-free environment. Impact on Others: Faith’s transformation inspired family and friends to embark on their health journeys, proving the ripple effect of personal change. Coach Michael X. Banks' Insights: Body's Healing Power: Michael emphasizes the body's natural ability to heal when given the right support through proper nutrition and intermittent fasting. Education and Support: He highlights the importance of educating people about their digestive systems and creating supportive communities to ensure lasting change. Key Takeaways: Sustainable weight loss requires lifestyle changes, focusing on proper diet and consistent habits. Support and community are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving health goals. Gradual, realistic changes lead to long-term success. Faith's Advice: Start small and make manageable changes. Seek support and don’t try to go it alone. Remember, it’s not about quick fixes—it’s a lifelong commitment to health and well-being. Closing Message: Dr. Hudson, Faith, and Coach Banks encourage listeners to take action, seek help if needed, and be inspired by Faith's journey. They stress that transformation is possible with the right mindset, education, and community support. The episode is available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Share it to inspire others and start your own health journey today!
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    31 m
  • Camishe Nunley, LMHC | "Health & Wellness In Focus" | "Mental Health For the Holidays"
    Nov 22 2024
    Episode #15 of "Health & Wellness In Focus" program and podcast for Tuesday, November 26 TOPIC: "Mental Health for the Holidays" Produced by Bryan Hudson, D.Min. New Covenant Church Vision Communications www.newcovenant.org www.visionmediaexperts.com Our special guest is Camishe Nunley LMHC, founder of Healing Your Hidden Hurts. www.healingyourhiddenhurts.com www.facebook.com/HealingYourHiddenHurts Summary of Conversation with Camishe Nunley by Bryan Hudson Episode #15 of Health and Wellness in Focus focuses on mental health during the holiday season, hosted by Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min. and featuring Camishe Nunley LMHC, a licensed mental health counselor. Nunley shares her expertise on navigating emotional challenges and fostering mental health through a combination of psychological expertise and faith. Key Highlights 1. Guest Introduction and Background: a. Camishe Nunley has dedicated her career to promoting mental health, empowerment, and emotional wholeness within the church community. b. Her journey was shaped by personal experiences with family mental health challenges, leading her to integrate spiritual concepts into psychological practices. c. She is currently pursuing a doctorate to deepen her impact in the field. 2. Mental Health Challenges During the Holidays: a. Common struggles include loneliness, grief, financial stress, and unrealistic expectations. b. Nunley emphasizes the importance of practicing "radical honesty," acknowledging emotions without guilt, and addressing them with grace. 3. Faith and Mental Health Integration: a. Nunley integrates spirituality with mental health practices through a method called Dialogical Hermeneutics, helping clients find meaning and healing. b. She encourages faith communities to embrace psychological expertise alongside spiritual practices for holistic well-being. 4. Practical Advice for the Holidays: a. Acknowledge emotions: Create space for grief or sadness while celebrating the memory and legacy of lost loved ones. b. Focus on connection: Foster meaningful relationships by being present, listening compassionately, and avoiding judgment. c. Gratitude and perspective: Shift focus from what’s lacking to what remains, balancing joy with struggles. 5. Encouragement for Mental Health Professionals: a. Nunley calls for more mental health professionals, particularly from underrepresented communities, to address growing needs. 6. Support for Pastors and Caregivers: a. Pastors and caregivers must prioritize their own mental health through transparency, spiritual intimacy, and professional support. b. The First Shepherd Pastoral Mental Health Task Force provides resources for pastors to maintain their well-being. 7. Encouragement to Seek Help: a. Nunley advises against merely “pushing through” challenges, advocating instead for seeking assistance, building resilience, and trusting God’s transformative work during difficult times. Closing Thoughts The conversation emphasizes the importance of mental health as an ongoing journey, particularly during emotionally charged seasons like the holidays. Listeners are encouraged to embrace both faith and expertise in addressing mental health challenges while fostering gratitude, connection, and resilience. Pastor Hudson expresses gratitude for Nunley’s contributions and highlights available resources for further support.
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    36 m
  • Health & Wellness In Focus | Prostate Health Awareness
    Jul 15 2024
    Health & Wellness In Focus #12 Topic: “A Faith Based approach in Addressing Minority Health Disparities" https://www.wellnessconnectionindy.org Pastor James Carroll is originally from Kankakee, Illinois. He is a graduate the of the UNiversity of Arkansas is the Pastor of Greater Shepherd Missionary Baptist Church here in INdianapolis where he has been leading and serving for over 20 years. It is the Vision of Pastor Carrol to empower God’s people in the city of Indianapolis to experience spiritual growth, educational advancement, and. Financial liberty through his preaching teaching and by obeying the divine orders from the Lord. Voted Indy’s 2013 People’s Choice award for pastor of the year Pastor Carroll is a Board member of Wellness Connection Indy and the Faith Based Coordinator at the Indiana Department of Health. Go ahead and bless the Lord as we welcome Pastor James Carrol to the Health and Wellness Program and podcast "Health & Wellness In Focus" is a wellness hub outreach from New Covenant Church in association with the Wellness Connection, Inc.. https://www.newcovenant.org/wellness Produced by Vision Communications Media LLC https://www.visionmediaexperts.com
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    17 m
  • Managing Grief & Loss | Workshop with Jan Michell
    Dec 22 2023
    Our guest is Jan Mitchell. The topic for Episode #9: "Managing Grief & Loss." Jan will share insights and expertise as a grief specialist. This workshop took place at New Covenant Church on December 6th, 2023. Jan Mitchell is a Mom, caregiver, widow, author, speaker & grief coach.She is the author of two Suddenly Single anthologies: “Surviving the Demise of Your Relationship “ & her latest book for the widowed, “Navigating Grief While Colliding With Purpose. Jan has acquired degrees in Business & Progressive Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University and the Advanced Ministry Institutes, where she graduated valedictorian. She is actively furthering her education in Communications & Public Relations at Indiana Wesleyan University. In addition to her degrees, Jan has obtained several certifications. She is a certified grief coach (ICF) and certified Mental Health First Aider under the National Council for Mental Well-Being. Jan is the founder and CEO of a non-profit organization, She Moves Forward, Inc., which provides all-inclusive grief coaching via individual coaching & group coaching. www.shemovesforwardinc.com
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    37 m
  • Conversation with Rev. Joel A. Bowman, Sr. – "Mental Health Best Practices"
    Sep 25 2023
    Mental Health Best Practices A discussion with Rev. Joel A. Bowman, Sr., MSW, LCSW Founder & Senior Pastor of Temple of Faith Baptist Church- Louisville, Kentucky Licensed Clinical Social Worker KEY DEFINITIONS MENTAL HEALTH includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, and helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices (SAMSHSA- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). MENTAL ILLNESSES are medical conditions that disrupt a person's thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others and daily functioning. Just as diabetes is a disorder of the pancreas, mental illnesses are medical conditions that often result in a diminished capacity for coping with the ordinary demands of life (NAMI- National Alliance on Mental Illness). Biblical Framework for Understanding Mental Health 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NIV) 23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 3 John 2 (NIV) 2 Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. Mark 12:30 (NIV) 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. Luke 2:52 (NIV) 52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. Romans 8:19-22 (NIV) 19 For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. 22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. About Pastor Joel A. Bowman, Sr. He is a native of Detroit, Michigan. Raised in a Christian home, Pastor Bowman accepted Christ as his personal Lord and Savior at the age of 12. Pastor Bowman holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree and a Master of Social Work degree from Wayne State University. Pastor Bowman also graduated from Michigan Theological Seminary (now known as Moody Seminary- Michigan Campus). Upon moving to Louisville in 1999, Pastor Bowman began his ministry as a senior pastor. Since 2001, he has served as founder and senior pastor of the Temple of Faith Baptist Church in South Louisville. Pastor Bowman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with over 30 years of experience in the mental health field. He has practiced as a clinician in the states of Michigan, Kentucky, and Indiana. Currently, Pastor Bowman is a team leader and therapist with the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), providing mental health treatment to America’s military Veterans. Pastor Bowman has guest lectured at the Garland School of Social Work at Baylor University, Kent School of Social Work at the University of Louisville, Campbellsville University, Carver College and the Baptist Seminary of Zimbabwe. A respected thought leader and free-lance writer, Pastor Bowman has been quoted in The Washington Post, USA TODAY, the Associated Press, the Christian Post, and the Baptist Press. Pastor Bowman and his beloved wife, Nannette Mitchell Bowman, are the proud parents of 2 daughters, Kayla and Katie, as well as 1 son, Joel, Jr. They also have one informally-adopted daughter named MaKayla. Note: Though Pastor Bowman is federal employee, in this presentation, he is representing himself. Pastor Bowman can be followed @JoelABowmanSr and acompellingvoice.com.
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    48 m
  • Your Voice Matters" Town Hall Meeting Intro Presentations
    Aug 27 2023
    "Your Voice Matters" Town Hall Meeting August 24 hosted by the Wellness Connection! We appreciate all of our presenters and their interactive breakout sessions. Introductory presentations by presenters prior to their breakout sessions. https://www.wellnessconnectionindy.org
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    49 m