In this rich conversation, Joni Lorraine is joined by Dr. Gena St. David—licensed professional counselor, marriage and family therapist, and Director of the Center for Counseling and Spirituality at Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas. With deep expertise in trauma resilience, systemic therapy, and neuroscience, Dr. St. David brings a compassionate and research-informed perspective to the topic of LGBTQ+ spirituality.

Together, they explore the nature of spiritual formation, how we come to understand and honor gender identity, and the realities of gender dysphoria. Dr. St. David explains the neuroscience behind trust, acceptance, and vulnerability—and how these are crucial in the coming out process and in creating communities where LGBTQ+ individuals can truly thrive.

Drawing from her book The Brain & the Spirit and her ongoing research into nonviolence and spiritual healing, Dr. St. David offers a powerful vision for what becomes possible when we meet each other—and ourselves—with love and understanding.

🎧 Join us for a conversation that bridges science and soul, offering insight, healing, and hope for all who long to be fully seen.

In this enlightening episode, Marilyn Connelly reflects on her spiritual upbringing and the importance of supportive environments for LGBTQ+ individuals. She explores the role of sensation and anger in spirituality, offering insights on how these emotions can be embraced as part of the spiritual journey. Marilyn also chats on the need for safe spaces and the power of intentional communities in fostering belonging and growth.

In this light hearted episode with her longtime friend Leslie Starnes, Leslie and Joni explore the nuances between religion and spirituality, and chat on treatment and addiction recovery. The two ponder on how order and ritual provide comfort as a centering power in life’s journey, and Leslie offers a unique perspective on finding spirituality anywhere, even when you’re power washing. Nothing lofty about spirituality here, and that’s a blessing.