Being Human with Steve Cuss

In this episode of "Being Human," hosts Steve and Lisa Cuss launch a new season focusing on family of origin that explores how inherited "assets and liabilities" shape our lives. They discuss family propaganda, permitted emotions, and generational traits, sharing personal stories about how these dynamics influence relationships and self-understanding. Emphasizing a gospel-centered approach, they encourage listeners to reflect on their own family patterns with compassion and curiosity, offering practical tools for growth. 

Biblical Passages


John 1:1–5 (ESV) 


Exodus 20:5–6 (ESV)


Deuteronomy 5:9 (ESV)


Jeremiah 31:29 (ESV)


Ezekiel 18:2 (ESV)


Genesis 25–27 (ESV)

Episode Resources:


What is a genogram?


More about the Family Systems Theory


Family Diagram (Bowen Center)


Pete Scazzero’s Emotionally Healthy Spirituality


Human Sized Journal – Digital Edition (PDF Download) 

Sign up for Steve’s Newsletter & Podcast Reminders:

Capable Life Newsletter

Get the Communication Styles Guide:

https://capablelife.com/pages/podcast

Join Steve at an Upcoming Intensive: 

Capable Life Intensives

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In this episode of Being Human with Steve Cuss, Steve and Lisa react to recent conversations and wrap up our series on communication styles. They explore the invisible dynamics that shape our relationships—with others, ourselves, and God. They discuss the transformative power of listening postures, emphasizing curiosity and spiritual presence. Clarissa Moll shares insights on vulnerability and judgment in communication, while additional guests, Zack Windahl and Andrew Arndt reflect on self-awareness and honesty before God. The Cusses highlight the importance of empathy, respect, and bringing truth to our inner lives.

Biblical Passages


James 1:19-20 (ESV)

Episode Resources:


Andrew Arndt’s A Strange and Gracious Light: How the Story of Jesus Changes the Way We See Everything


Fyodor Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov


C.S. Lewis's The Abolition of Man


Zach Windahl’s The Bible Simplified: Learn the Story, Live the Story

More From Clarissa Moll:


Clarissa Moll’s The Bulletin podcast


Explore Clarissa Moll’s website


Read Clarissa Moll’s substack

Sign up for Steve’s Newsletter & Podcast Reminders:

Capable Life Newsletter

Get the Communication Styles Guide:

https://capablelife.com/pages/podcast

Join Steve at an Upcoming Intensive: 

Capable Life Intensives
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of "Being Human with Steve Cuss," Steve and author and spiritual guide Andrew Arndt explore fallout from prominent Christian leaders' public confessions of wrongdoing. They explore the spiritual and psychological dynamics that lead to such failures, including the dangers of living a double life, the creation of a false self, and the importance of empathy and repentance. Andrew shares insights from his new book A Strange and Gracious Light: How the Story of Jesus Changes the Way We See Everything and reflects on personal growth, leadership, and the healing power of unconditional love within the church community. Steve and Andrew emphasize honesty, vulnerability, and the ongoing journey toward wholeness.

Biblical Passages


I Corinthians 13 (ESV)


Luke 5:31 (ESV)

Episode Resources:


Andrew Arndt’s A Strange and Gracious Light: How the Story of Jesus Changes the Way We See Everything


Fyodor Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov


Frederick Buechner’s Telling the Truth: The Gospel as Tragedy, Comedy, and Fairy Tale


C.S. Lewis's The Abolition of Man


Rich Mullins on Salvation and "God in His Mercy" (video)


Henri Nouwen's In the Name of Jesus

More From Andrew Arndt:


Andrew Arndt’s Streams in the Wasteland: Finding Spiritual Renewal with the Desert Fathers and Mothers


Andrew Arndt’s All Flame: Entering into the Life of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

Sign up for Steve’s Newsletter & Podcast Reminders:

Capable Life Newsletter
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In this episode of "Being Human with Steve Cuss," Steve talks with Zach Windahl, author of The Bible Simplified. They discuss making the Bible more approachable, overcoming common misconceptions, and the emotional challenges of engaging with scripture. Zach shares his journey of faith and unique Bible reading practices. Steve and Zach offer practical encouragement for anyone feeling intimidated by Bible reading, highlighting the importance of authenticity, patience, and fresh approaches to scripture. Zach’s passion for simplifying complex topics and empowering readers shines throughout the episode.

Episode Resources:


Zach Windahl’s The Bible Simplified: Learn the Story, Live the Story


Zach Windahl’s The Bible, Simplified Study Guide plus Streaming Video


Zach Windahl’s Bible reading plan


Zach Windahl’s 21 day Bible reading plan

Pareto Principle Explained: How the 80/20 Rule Changes Everything


Nathan Finochio’s website


J.R. Briggs’ at Missio Alliance


Infographic: How long does each Book of the Bible tale to read?

More From Zach Windahl:


Zach Windahl’s website


How to Study the Bible (and Actually Enjoy It)


Zach Windahl’s The Bible Study: A One-Year Study of the Entire Bible and How It Relates to You

Sign up for Steve’s Newsletter & Podcast Reminders:

Capable Life Newsletter

Get the Communication Styles Guide:

https://capablelife.com/pages/podcast

Join Steve at an Upcoming Intensive: 

Capable Life Intensives

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In this episode of Being Human, host Steve Cuss and guest Clarissa Moll explore how different communication and listening styles shape our relationships. They discuss the impact of mental and emotional load, the importance of listening to learn rather than to fix or defend, and offer practical strategies for fostering empathy and connection. Steve shares personal experiences about self-awareness and emotional honesty, especially as a pastor, while both emphasize the transformative power of compassionate listening for individuals, families, and faith communities. 

Biblical Passages


James 1:19-20 (ESV)


Psalm 139 (ESV)

Episode Resources:


Past Episode: Steve Cuss & Clarissa Moll: How Your Communication Style Fuels Reactivity—and How to Change It

More From Clarissa Moll:


Clarissa Moll’s The Bulletin podcast


Explore Clarissa Moll’s website


Read Clarissa Moll’s substack

Sign up for Steve’s Newsletter & Podcast Reminders:

Capable Life Newsletter

New Candles and Journals:

https://www.stevecusswords.com/

Get the Communication Styles Guide:

https://capablelife.com/pages/podcast

Join Steve at an Upcoming Intensive: 

Capable Life Intensives
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