In this heartfelt episode of The S.W.A.G., Kyle and Rod embark on a spiritual journey to explore the true meaning of joy beyond mere happiness. They delve into the differences between joy and happiness, emphasizing that while happiness is dependent on external circumstances, true joy is rooted in faith and one's relationship with Jesus.

Kyle shares personal stories of overcoming struggles like alcohol dependency, finding fulfillment and joy in faith rather than in temporary fixes. Rod and Kyle discuss the challenges of self-medicating and how it often leads to more misery rather than true joy. They highlight the importance of choosing joy, irrespective of the trials and adversities one may face, drawing inspiration from biblical references and personal anecdotes.

Listeners are encouraged to look within and seek joy through gratitude, reflection, and reliance on God's promises. The episode offers practical tips like creating a joy jar, building a joy playlist, and embracing small wins, urging listeners to make joy a daily choice and lifestyle.

This insightful conversation closes with an invitation to explore the upcoming episode focused on attaining peace in a noisy, chaotic world. Join Kyle and Rod on this uplifting episode and rediscover the joy that lies beyond external circumstances.

Welcome back to The S.W.A.G. with your hosts Kyle Bryant and Rod Oliver. After delving into Mental Health Awareness in May, this episode shifts focus to an enlightening discussion on agape love, a profound and selfless kind of love. Join Kyle and Rod as they share personal anecdotes about challenges, perseverance, and the humorous mishaps during podcast recordings.

In this episode, the conversation dives deep into understanding agape love—how it is distinct from the everyday love we speak about, and its transformative power. They discuss the importance of community, forgiveness, and non-transactional relationships, reflecting on how to truly embody love in a world often filled with superficial connections.

Explore the new series on the Fruit of the Spirit, starting with the concept of love, its biblical roots, and practical ways to live it out. Rod and Kyle offer insights into leading with love in personal and professional realms while addressing areas in society needing more compassion. As they prepare to tackle other attributes in upcoming episodes, this opening dialogue encourages embracing love in its most genuine form, aligning with divine purpose and positively impacting others.

Welcome back to another episode of The S.W.A.G., where hosts Kyle and Rod continue their meaningful discussions on mental health. Reflecting on previous episodes featuring Kevin Christopher, this episode delves deep into the intersection of mental health, music, and community, highlighting their significance in the healing journey.

The hosts tackle the often-taboo topic of mental health within faith-based communities, discussing the stigma that can surround mental health challenges, particularly for those in leadership roles. They explore how leaders, such as pastors, often face immense pressure, leading to potential struggles with mental health. This candid conversation covers the importance of vulnerability and the culture of care that could support individuals dealing openly with mental health issues.

Addressing the critical role of leadership, Kyle and Rod urge listeners to recognize and nurture the strengths of those they lead, advocating for situational awareness and servant leadership. They emphasize that handling issues with empathy and patience can help leaders maintain their own mental wellness while fostering a supportive environment for their communities.

Join Kyle and Rod in this enlightening discussion that aims to remove the shame associated with mental health in leadership and offers insights into creating a healthier, more supportive faith community.

Welcome to the final episode of our four-part series, "Mental Struggles, Kingdom Answers." In this episode, hosts Kyle Bryant and Rod Oliver delve into the profound topic of purpose and its pivotal role in mental resilience and health.

Join the hosts as they candidly share personal stories and struggles, revealing how external positions can obscure one's true purpose. They explore the notion that true fulfillment comes from living in a relationship with Christ and demonstrating His love to others.

Listeners are invited to reflect on the cultural pressures and unhealthy lifestyles that impact mental health, including the gravity of negative media influences and societal expectations. The discussion underscores the importance of understanding personal well-being, compassion towards others, and the need for community and professional support for mental health struggles.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that emphasizes the significance of finding purpose beyond societal roles, fostering a healthy lifestyle, and the courage to combat stigma around mental health within cultural and church communities.

In this episode, journey with us as we delve into the remarkable story of 'The Well,' a song born from a profound spiritual awakening and personal transformation. Our guest, Kevin Christopher shares his inspiring journey of evolving from a jazz and musical theater background into a Christian singer-songwriter. This transformation was marked by a pivotal moment of surrendering to divine guidance, unlocking new paths in his musical career, and leading to the creation of 'The Well.'

The song, inspired by a sermon on the woman at the well, became a catalyst for healing not only for its creator but also for listeners dealing with shame, addiction, and mental health challenges. We explore how personal experiences, childhood memories, and spiritual encounters shaped the lyrics and music video, turning a narrative of personal struggle into a message of hope and healing.

Join us as we discuss the profound impact 'The Well' has had on communities, sparking conversations about shame, addiction, and mental health. Discover how this journey underscores the belief that purpose doesn't expire with age and that healing is possible through surrender, faith, and understanding the divine voice guiding our path. Engage with the narrative that invites everyone to bring their burdens to the well for healing and transformation.

In this compelling episode of 'Mental Struggles, Kingdom Answers.' we delve deep into the complexities surrounding trauma, substance use, and their profound impact on mental health. Our discussion begins with an exploration of trauma, underscoring its varied forms—from childhood experiences to adult adversities—and its potential to alter brain functions leading to conditions like PTSD.

We further examine the intricate link between genetics, brain chemistry, and mental health, dispelling stigmas associated with seeking help and exploring the spiritual guidance offered through scripture. With heartfelt stories and insightful examples, we shed light on how substance use can distort our mental state and how community, accountability, and spiritual practices can aid in recovery and healing.

Listeners are encouraged to embrace compassion, empathy, and understanding for those dealing with mental health struggles, as we underline the importance of seeking therapy, finding community, and leaning on faith in the journey to mental wellness. Join us as we offer encouragement and practical advice, fostering hope and healing for all who struggle.

In this enlightening episode of The S.W.A.G., hosts Kyle Bryant and Rod Oliver delve into the transformative power of music in mental health with special guest Kevin Christopher, a talented singer-songwriter from Greenville. Kevin opens up about his past struggles with abuse and shame, revealing how music became his sanctuary and a means to connect with God.

Listeners are treated to an inspiring conversation about the healing potential of worship and how Kevin's spiritual journey brought him from the brink of despair to a place of fulfillment. With raw honesty, Kevin shares his transformative encounter with faith, which not only healed his past wounds but allowed him to embrace his role as a worship leader fully.

This episode is a poignant reminder of the importance of community and reaching out for help. It underscores the message that, although life's challenges may seem overwhelming, faith and music have the power to guide us toward hope and redemption.

Welcome to the first episode of our series "Mental Struggles, Kingdom Answers.," dedicated to Mental Health Awareness Month. Join us as we delve into three significant mental health challenges: chronic stress, the effects of social media, and the impact of isolation and loneliness. Throughout this episode, we explore practical solutions, including faith-based approaches, mindful practices, and community support, to overcome these challenges and find peace and balance. Tune in for an insightful discussion dedicated to improving mental well-being through spiritual and practical guidance.