Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick

Welcome to another episode of "Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick." Today, Michael is joined by Brian Lee, founder and director of Broken to Beloved, a ministry dedicated to providing practical resources for recovery from and safeguarding against spiritual abuse. 
In this heartfelt conversation, Brian shares his personal journey through repeated experiences of spiritual abuse and how these challenges birthed a passion for helping others reclaim their belovedness. Michael and Brian delve into the intricacies of spiritual abuse, the importance of cultivating humility and self-awareness in spiritual leadership, and the transformative power of naming and owning one’s story. They also discuss the innovative programs offered by Broken to Beloved, which include a book club, podcast, and an impactful eight-week cohort called "Through," designed to guide individuals in their healing journey. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on finding hope, healing, and wholeness in the aftermath of spiritual trauma. 
About Brian Lee
Brian Lee is a pastor, coach, and speaker. In his 20+ years of experience in vocational ministry, he experienced three instances of spiritual abuse and toxic leadership. After living with an identity of brokenness for too many years, he learned to recognize and embrace his belovedness.
In 2023, he founded Broken to Beloved, a nonprofit organization that exists to provide practical resources for recovery from and safeguarding against spiritual abuse and religious trauma.
He is a certified Trauma-Informed Coach (Centre for Healing) and holds a certification in Religious Trauma Studies from the Global Center for Religious Research.

Based in Richmond, VA, Brian loves to go on mini-adventures with his family, exploring their neighborhood, community, and city with his family. As a coffee snob and addict, he could always use another cup.
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Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this episode, Michael John Cusick and AJ Denson continue their exploration of the “four S’s” of attachment—seen, soothed, safe, and secure—focusing today on the final S: secure. Together, they dive into the meaning of secure attachment, both psychologically and spiritually, and how it’s reflected in our relationships with God and others.
Drawing on personal experiences, biblical narratives, and insights from attachment theory, Michael explains how secure attachment is foundational to human flourishing and to our sense of inner peace—even in life’s most challenging moments. They discuss the difference between secure and insecure attachment, the impact of technology on connection, and what it means to be loved by God in both our strength and vulnerability.
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Welcome to the Restoring the Soul podcast with Michael John Cusick. In today's episode, Michael and A.J. Denson continue their deep dive into the four S's of attachment: Seen, Soothed, Safe, and Secure. Drawing from the work of Dr. Dan Siegel and integrating insights from neuroscience, psychology, and spiritual formation, they explore how our early relationships shape not only our emotional lives but also our connection with God. 
This conversation unpacks the vital importance of safety in relationships—both physical and emotional—and how boundaries, repair after conflict, and humility all contribute to healing and connection. Whether you're a parent, spouse, or someone seeking deeper intimacy with God, this episode offers practical wisdom and hope for cultivating secure attachments in every area of life.
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On this episode of Restoring the Soul, we’re joined by Ericka Anderson, author of Freely Sober: Rethinking Alcohol Through the Lens of Faith. Together, Michael and Ericka open up a thoughtful and grace-filled conversation about the complexities of alcohol use among Christians and the personal journey of overcoming dependence.
Ericka Anderson shares candidly about her own struggles with alcohol, the internal battles that come with trying to moderate or quit drinking, and the lived realities of seeking help within faith communities—where often the only solutions offered are extreme or stigmatizing. Drawing from her experience, research, and journalism background, she explores why so many people, especially women, feel pressure around drinking and why traditional labels like “alcoholic” can do more harm than good.
This episode dives into how self-medication, shame, and self-deception can keep us trapped, and why community, curiosity, and honest reflection—rooted in faith—are key to true freedom. Whether you’re questioning your own relationship with alcohol or supporting a loved one, this conversation offers hope, practical next steps, and a reminder that you’re not alone.
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Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this conversation, Michael sits down with Mark Batterson, the celebrated pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., and multi-time New York Times bestselling author. Together, they dive deep into the inspiration and lessons behind Mark’s latest book, "Gradually Then Suddenly: How to Dream Bigger, Decide Better, and Leave a Lasting Legacy."
Drawing from three decades of ministry, Mark Batterson shares stories of setbacks, perseverance, and the long, often unseen journey toward meaningful transformation. The episode explores the power of slow growth in a world obsessed with quick fixes, the value of legacy and "cathedral thinking," and the importance of staying humble and hungry over the long haul.
With candid reflections, practical wisdom, and a few memorable one-liners, this episode offers rich encouragement for anyone seeking to influence others, live with deep conviction, and play the long game of faith and leadership. So grab a cup of coffee and join us for a heartfelt discussion on dreaming, deciding, and leaving a legacy that lasts.

Mark Batterson serves as the Lead Visionary of National Community Church (NCC) in Washington, DC. NCC also owns and operates Ebenezers Coffeehouse, The Miracle Theatre, the DC Dream Center, the Capital Turnaround, and Culture House as gathering places for the community and funding for Kingdom causes. Mark also serves as Lead Visionary for The Dream Collective, which equips and supports dreamers who long for revival in the church, reformation in the kingdom, and renaissance in culture.
Mark holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Regent University and is the author of 25 books including the New York Times bestselling The Circle Maker as well as In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, Wild Goose Chase, Double Blessing, Whisper, and, most recently, A Million Little Miracles and The Best Worst Day Ever, a children’s book he wrote with his daughter, Summer. Mark is married to Lora, and they live on Capitol Hill. They have three children: Parker, Summer (married to Austin), and Josiah.
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ENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:
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