Mental Health and the Mission of the Church
Chip Judd
Join me in the conversation as I dig into how mental health and the mission of the church can be a powerful partnership in developing believers and reaching our communities.
Episodes
The Crossroads of God's Power and People's Pain
A new season of Mental Health and the Mission of the Church begins with the first of many conversations centered around Chip Judd’s upcoming book, Shades of Grace.In this episode, Chip and Joey Svensson explore what happens when grace moves beyond something we simply understand and becomes something we truly experience. They talk about their friendship, Joey’s mental health journey, the trap of performing and rule-keeping, and why some truths take time to move from our heads to our hearts.It’s the beginning of a deeper conversation about learning to see people the way Jesus sees them—starting with ourselves.GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Can Faith and Science Work Together? Two Christian Psychiatrists Respond
What happens when two Christian psychiatrists sit down with two pastors to tackle one of the most misunderstood conversations in the Church?In this powerful discussion, Dr. Baron Short and Dr. Ethan Ashley explore the intersection of faith, psychiatry, and brain science, challenging the false choice between trusting God and embracing modern mental health treatment. Together with Chip Judd and Joey Svendsen, they unpack why mental illness has often been treated differently than physical illness in Christian circles—and why that mindset is beginning to change.GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
When Church Advice Hurts More Than It Helps
What happens when mental illness and faith become tangled together? In this episode of Mental Health and the Mission of the Church, Pastor Chip Judd, Joey Svendsen, Dr. Cassie Reid, and Christie Henderson have an honest conversation about intrusive thoughts, OCD, scrupulosity, depression, and the culture of mental health within the church. Whether you've personally struggled, love someone who has, or serve in church leadership, this episode is an invitation to replace simplistic answers with compassion, curiosity, and hope. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
A Candid Conversation with Mac Lake on Mental Health
Church leadership can be deeply meaningful, but it can also be emotionally demanding. In this episode, Pastor Chip Judd is joined by leadership coach and pastor Mac Lake for a conversation about mental health, ministry, and the importance of healthy boundaries. Together, they discuss the pressures many church leaders face, why isolation can be so damaging, and how creating margin in our lives allows us to serve others more effectively. Mac shares practical insights from years of ministry experience, including how learning to say "no" can protect both leaders and their families. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Is it Depression.... Or Something Else?
Mental health is more than a diagnosis. In this episode, Pastor Chip Judd and Dr. Baron Short explore four dimensions that shape our mental well-being: Disease, Disorder, Disconnection, and Disorientation. Joined by Pastor Chris Russo, who shares his experience with severe OCD, and Joey Svendsen, who opens up about a recent struggle with anxiety, the conversation offers an honest look at mental health through both scientific and spiritual lenses. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Faith vs. Mental Health? Not So Fast!
This episode explores the growing divide between mental health conversations and the church, featuring Dr. Warren Kinghorn, a psychiatrist and professor with deep roots in Christian faith. Dr. Kinghorn draws a distinction between clinical mental health care and the church’s role in discipleship, while Chip Judd challenges the need for greater integration between the two. Ultimately, it’s a thoughtful, “iron sharpens iron” dialogue about how faith and mental health can work together—not in competition, but in partnership. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
A Psychiatrist’s Encounter with Jesus
What happens when cutting-edge science collides with a life-changing encounter with Jesus? In this episode of Mental Health and the Mission of the Church, Joey and I are joined by Jeff Leinberger and Dr. Baron Short—psychiatrist, researcher, and leader in brain stimulation treatments for depression. But this conversation goes beyond clinical insight. Dr. Short shares a recent, deeply personal encounter with Jesus that reshaped not only his life but the way he sees his work, his purpose, and the future of mental health care. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Hard Lessons from Burnout and What Comes After.
In this episode of Mental Health and the Mission of the Church, Pastor Scott Sauls shares his journey through burnout and recovery, offering honest insight into the pressures of church leadership. He highlights the importance of mental health, healthy organizational structures, and leading with humility, challenging leaders to honor their limits and build sustainable, life-giving ministries. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
From Pulpit to Practice: Mental Health as Discipleship
What if mental health wasn’t separate from discipleship… but essential to it? Chip Judd, Pastor Armando, and Dr. Chris Adams explore how the church can better care for people by integrating mental health principles into everyday ministry. This is the kind of conversation that creates healthier leaders—and a healthier church. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Why Pastors Should See a Therapist
In this episode of Mental Health and the Mission of the Church, Chip Judd and guests explore the growing conversation around mental health within the church. Through personal stories and honest discussion, they unpack how anxiety, depression, and leadership pressures affect pastors and ministry leaders. The conversation highlights the importance of integrating mental health awareness into pastoral care, understanding the difference between moral failure and predatory behavior, and why healthy leaders are essential to a healthy church. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Fake Vulnerability | A Chip Mini
In this mini episode, Chip Judd and Chip Henderson unpack the idea of “fake vulnerability” — the kind of honesty that sounds transparent but still keeps people at a safe distance. With clarity and humility, they challenge church leaders to move beyond surface-level transparency and into the kind of self-awareness and courage that fosters genuine mental and emotional health. This conversation builds on the powerful stories and insights shared in Part 1 and Part 2 of Building a Mentally Healthy Church — be sure to listen to the full episodes for the complete picture.
From Crisis to Culture: Building a Mentally Healthy Church| Part 2
In Part 2 with Chip and Christie Henderson, the conversation shifts from personal mental health struggles to the broader impact of emotional health on church leadership and culture. They explore the difference between faux vulnerability and true authenticity, the role of medication and professional help in healing, and the resistance leaders often face when advocating for change. The episode emphasizes that emotional health is part of spiritual formation, that integrity requires alignment in every area of a leader’s life, and that a healthy ministry begins with healthy individuals. Ultimately, they argue that creating a shame-free, restorative church culture is a fight — but one worth pursuing. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
From Crisis to Culture: Building a Mentally Healthy Church | Part 1
Chip Judd and Joey Svendsen sit down with Chip and Christy Henderson for an honest, deeply personal conversation about mental health in ministry. This episode is a reminder that mental health awareness is not optional in ministry—it’s essential. P.S. Click HERE to download My Toad app and use promo code “CHIP10”. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Unlocking Your Brain: The Role of Dopamine
In this conversation, Hannah Bookbinder discusses the critical role of dopamine as a neurotransmitter in executive functioning. She explains how dopamine is necessary for following through on plans and how its absence can hinder various cognitive skills. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Is the Church Failing at Its Mission?
The church talks a lot about discipleship but what if we’re overlooking something essential? In our latest episode of Mental Health and the Mission of the Church, we sit down for a candid and challenging conversation about the intersection of faith, emotional health, and the true mission of the church. Together, we explore hard questions many leaders and believers are already wrestling with. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Understanding the Spectrum of Autism
In this conversation, Chip Judd, Joey Svendsen, and Jen Jackson explore the intersection of mental health and autism. Jen shares her personal journey of discovering her autism diagnosis in adulthood and discusses the unique experiences of autistic individuals, including sensory processing differences, the concept of masking, and the importance of self-acceptance. The discussion also touches on the challenges of anxiety and depression within the autistic community and emphasizes the need for supportive environments that foster emotional well-being. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
The story behind the lungs that saved my life
He shot himself. And the lungs that once gave him life… gave life again. This story isn’t easy—but it’s full of redemption, faith, and the power of generosity in the face of grief. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Reforming Church Leadership for Better Mental Health
In this powerful episode, Chip Judd and Joey sit down with Armando Palazzo—a licensed pastor and therapist who works with church leaders around the world. Together, they explore the deep connection between emotional health and spiritual maturity, especially in the lives of those leading others. Armando shares how returning to life after a major shift can feel like stepping into a different movie and why tending to the soul is critical in every season. They discuss the impact of early life experiences, the importance of integrating faith with mental health practices, and how vulnerability in leadership can create a culture of healing. This conversation is a timely reminder that emotional health is not separate from discipleship—it’s central to it. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
How to Lead with Honesty and Heart | 4 Pastor's Perspectives
What happens when pastors get real about mental health, community, and the messiness of leadership? In this episode, Chip Judd, Josh Roberts, Virgil Sierra, and Joey Svendsen open up about: – The power of friendship among pastors – Leading diverse, bilingual churches – Therapy, emotional health, and why it all matters for ministry – Normalizing counseling in discipleship – Laughing through the hard stuff This is an honest, hopeful, and needed conversation for anyone in ministry (or who loves someone who is). GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
The Role of Medication in Mental Wellness
In this conversation, Chip Judd, Chris Russo, and Joey discuss the complexities of mental health, particularly in the context of church leadership. They explore personal experiences with anxiety, OCD, and the role of medication in managing mental health. The discussion highlights the intersection of faith and mental health, the importance of self-awareness, and the challenges of coping mechanisms. The speakers share insights on how their experiences shape their understanding of mental health within the church community. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
The Role of Authority in Spiritual Leadership
In this conversation, Chip and Jesse dive into the complexities of authority within the church, the importance of community in spiritual growth, and the need to re-evaluate leadership structures. They discuss the burdens placed on pastors, the intersection of pastoring and counseling, and the necessity of creating a safe environment for spiritual exploration. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
When Church Hurts: Mental Health Misconceptions with Jesse Evans
Chip and Jesse Evans (licensed therapist, and owner of Steadfast Christian Counseling,) discuss personal experiences, the role of pastoral counseling versus professional therapy, and the need for education and understanding in both communities. They highlight the misconceptions surrounding mental health and the necessity of building bridges between mental health professionals and church leaders to better serve individuals seeking help. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Understanding Grief: Myths and Realities
Chip discusses faith, intimacy, and the irony of surviving due to another’s mental health crisis. The conversation explores grief, mental illness, organ donation, and the importance of boundaries in relationships. It also underscores the non-linear nature of grief, the role of medication, and the need for compassion, professional support, and honoring lost loved ones. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Chip is Back!
Chip is back and sharing the incredible, divine story of how he got his new lungs! From the unexpected call from the donor's family and the road to recovery, this episode is filled with faith, miracles, and resilience. You won’t want to miss hearing Chip’s firsthand account—and seeing him back in his seat where he belongs! GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
The Lung Transplant Journey told by Chip's Family
In this episode, Chip's family joins us to share their incredible journey through his lung transplant surgery. They open up about the challenges, the emotional highs and lows, and what the recovery process has been like for them. Tune in as they reflect on their experiences, lessons learned, and how the journey has shaped their perspective on life moving forward. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Best of Chip Clips – "Chipisms"
Welcome to a special episode of Mental Health and the Mission of the Church! We know you've been missing Chip and his unparalleled wisdom as much as we have. While Chip is taking some well-deserved time to recover from his recent lung transplant surgery, we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to reflect on some of his most memorable moments. In this episode, we're celebrating Chip's unique insights, humor, and advice with a curated collection of our favorite clips—what we like to call 'Chipisms.' From heartfelt reflections to laugh-out-loud anecdotes across various platforms, this compilation captures the essence of what makes Chip so special. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this tribute to the one and only Chip. Here's to his recovery and many more unforgettable moments in the future! GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
The Weight of Waiting: How to Have Faith in the Midst of Uncertainty
In this heartfelt and candid episode, Chip shares an inspiring conversation about navigating life’s toughest challenges with faith, community, and resilience. He opens up about his battle with the severe lung condition, the journey toward a potential lung transplant, and the profound lessons he’s learned along the way. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Anchored in Trust: More on Chip’s Health Journey
On November 20th, Chip sat down with Pastor Greg and Joey for an honest and heartfelt conversation. In this episode, Chip shares updates about some new developments regarding his health and reflects on the challenges of trusting God in the waiting. Tune in to hear Chip’s journey of faith, vulnerability, and perseverance in the midst of uncertainty. CaringBridge GoFundMe GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Mental Health and the Ministry, a Conversation with Pastor Greg Surratt
Tune in to this engaging conversation with Chip Judd and Greg Surratt, the founding pastor of Seacoast Church. Greg opens up about his mental health journey and its impact on his ministry, offering valuable insights and experiences. It's a powerful and vulnerable conversation between two pastors on mental health and ministry. Link to "Telling Yourself the Truth" book mentioned in this podcast can be found here: https://a.co/d/8jzV6cI GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
It’s Personal: Chip’s Health and Questions We All Deal With
In this episode, Chip opens up about his recent health journey, sharing candidly about the challenges he’s facing and how these experiences are impacting his life and ministry. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Faith, Psychology, and Authentic Healing: Chip Judd’s Journey Through the Charismatic Movement
In the podcast episode titled Chip Judd shares his personal journey, blending faith and psychology. He reflects on his experiences within the Charismatic Christian movement and how it shaped his understanding of emotional and spiritual healing. Judd, a pastor and counselor, explores the intersection of psychological principles and faith-based practices, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in healing. The episode delves into his unique approach to helping others find balance between mental health and spiritual growth, drawing from both his personal and professional experiences. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
Mental Health & the Misson of the Church
Hear from Chip on why he is relaunching his podcast and what the new season will look like as he dives into the most important conversation happening in the church world right now: Mental Health and the Mission of the Church.
Shades of Grace
A proven path to seeing God, yourself, and others through a filter of God's grace. GO HERE to be the amongst the first to read Shades of Grace by Chip Judd.
ATTACK THE FRUIT - STRENGTHEN THE ROOT!
When we attack the FRUIT of someone's behavior we unintentionally strengthen the ROOT that's driving that behavior! Be careful when you’re working on breaking a cycle that you don’t make it worse instead of better.
NAME YOUR NEED!
Two critical steps in breaking unhealthy cycles: 1) own your responses, and 2) name the need. Learn to distinguish between a need and want.
RESPONSIBILITY = FREEDOM!
Own your response. Name your need. Continuing the conversation on the habit cycle. 
IT WON’T STOP UNTIL YOU OWN IT!
IT WON’T STOP UNTIL YOU OWN IT! Other people do not cause your response. How you have learned to get your needs met and manage your feelings drives your response. Then your response is the other person’s trigger. STAY IN TOUCH: https://linktr.ee/chipjudd
MY BIGGEST ONGOING STRUGGLE
MY BIGGEST ONGOING STRUGGLE is the example for today's cycle-breaking talk. You can learn to identify the 4-phases of habit formation and how they drive your self-defeating behavior. Stay in touch: https://linktr.ee/chipjudd
4 PHASES OF A HABIT
MY BIGGEST ONGOING STRUGGLE is the example for today's cycle-breaking talk. You can learn to identify the 4-phases of habit formation and how they drive your self-defeating behavior. Stay in touch: https://linktr.ee/chipjudd
Who Are You Going To Be Today?
OLD YOU - NEW YOU…Who are you going to be today? Your energy-efficient brain (lazy) wants to just do what it’s always done even if it didn’t work. Let’s talk about some keys to re-wiring your plastic brain.
Transformational Friendship
TRANSFORMATIVE FRIENDSHIP! Have you ever had someone in your life that fulfilled the role of a gate keeper? Today I want to celebrate some people who have done that for me. Stay in touch: https://linktr.ee/chipjudd
GOD'S PATH TO REST, CONFIDENCE, AND STRENGTH
God’s answer to 21st-century Stress. Let’s check out Isaiah 30:15 and see what God has to say about the path toward restfulness, confidence, and strength.
SABBATH RHYTHMS
SABBATH RHYTHMS — Some practical ideas on how to apply a Sabbath Mindset and a Sabbath Lifestyle in your busy life.
SABBATH MINDSET. SABBATH LIFESTYLE.
Gods answer to 21st-century stress — Sabbath Mindset/Sabbath Lifestyle. we’re talking about how to break the cycle of chronic stress most of us experience. Check it out.
RADICAL REST!
8-Minute MindShift! Your Brain On SABBATH. Let's talk about God's remedy for 21st Century stress -- Radical Rest.
GLOBAL STRESS TEST!
We are passing through a GLOBAL STRESS TEST. How did you do? What did you learn about yourself? How can we handle, even benefit from, the stress life serves up on a regular basis? (TRIUNE BRAIN cont)
FLUSH YOUR STRESS!
FLUSH YOUR STRESS! Stress is not a bad thing unless it becomes chronic (constant, habitual, occurring frequently). Develop a Sabbath Mindset and a Sabbath Lifestyle.
Brain vs Mind!
BRAIN vs MIND! Let’s do a quick chat about the difference between your brain and your mind and why it matters. I think it might help you.
My TRIUNE BRAIN. Come on, Dude...
My triune brain! Come on dude -Why do I need to know this stuff? I promise you it will help you in your journey to understand how your brain was created to function. Hang in there!
Is Your TRIUNE BRAIN your problem?
Is YOUR TRIUNE BRAIN the key to your problem? How you define a problem shapes your solution. Let’s talk about the role the brain plays in some of our life challenges.