Pastors are trained to teach, preach, and fix problems, but very few are trained to actually listen. In this episode, Dr. Flood breaks down what active listening really is, why nodding and waiting to talk does not count, and how rushing to solutions quietly shuts people down instead of helping them heal.

You will learn the three components of active listening, how reflective listening works in real counseling conversations, and why minimal encouragers, strategic silence, and open ended questions create trust and depth. This episode also addresses the most common listening mistakes pastors make and why resisting the urge to fix is one of the most important pastoral disciplines.

This week’s “Name That Pattern” introduces hyperreligiosity and explains when intense spiritual behavior may indicate a neurological or mental health concern rather than genuine spiritual growth, and how pastors can wisely discern the difference.

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🎙 The Flood Zone: Where clinical insight meets biblical wisdom to address real marriage struggles. Each episode serves both couples and the pastors shepherding them.

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