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Join Sam and Aaron, counselors at Liberty University's Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS), as they explore the mental health challenges facing college students today. With a blend of clinical, research-based insights and a biblical worldview, these conversations delve into crucial topics like coping after a breakup, establishing healthy boundaries, self-forgiveness, navigating food and body image issues, and much more. Plus, they're bringing in expert guest perspectives to help you t ...
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It’s graduation season, and in the final episode of Season2, Sam and Aaron tackle the big questions facing college seniors: What comes after graduation? How do you manage expectations, career decisions, finances, and faith during such a major life transition? This conversation is all aboutsetting healthy goals, coping with change, and trusting God …
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In this episode of Coffee with CAPS, Sam and Aaronaddress some of the most common misconceptions about counseling — particularlythose that often discourage college students from seeking support. They discussmyths such as the belief that counseling is only for people with serious mentalillness, that counselors simply give advice, or that needing hel…
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In this candid episode, Sam and Aaron talk about the real-life ups and downs of growing up as a PK. Aaron shares his personal story—what it was like living under constant expectations, struggling with authenticity, and learning to trust others. They unpack the hidden pressures that come with being in the spotlight at church, the emotional toll it c…
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In this episode of Coffee with CAPS, Sam and Aaron explore how attachment styles shape our relationships, self-perception, and even our view of God. They break down the four major attachment styles, discuss their impact, and offer practical insights on improving emotional connections. Whether you're looking to understand yourself better or strength…
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Is living together before marriage really a good idea? In this episode, Sam and Aaron discuss the popular belief that cohabitation is the perfect "test run" for marriage, exploring why so many couples choose to move in together, the hidden downsides, and what both statistics and Christian values have to say about it. From false security to unexpect…
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How do you actually move on from a breakup? How long does it take to heal? Do guys and girls handle breakups differently? And do you really need closure? In this episode of Coffee with CAPS, Sam and Aaron unpack the emotional rollercoaster of heartbreak — why it feels so heavy, the cultural myths that can slow down healing, and the best ways to act…
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Relationships: Red, Yellow and Green Flags
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Love is in the air... or is it? Dating can be exciting, confusing, and sometimes downright messy. Sam and Aaron break down the key signs of a healthy relationship, warning signs to watch for, and major red flags you should never ignore. Whether you're happily single, deep in the dating game, or just love a good relationship rant, this one's for you…
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Winning the War in Your Mind | Stephen Ciucci
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You know those weird, random, or even negative thoughts that just won’t leave you alone? This week, Sam and Aaron sit down with counselor Stephen Ciucci to break down intrusive thoughts — why they happen, what they mean (or don’t mean), and how to keep them from taking over. If your brain ever feels like a chaotic group chat, this episode is for yo…
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Coffee with CAPS kicks off the spring semester with an insightful episode on navigating the challenges of returning to campus life. Sam and Aaron discuss transitioning from holiday mode back to college routines, sharing practical tips for managing back-to-school anxiety, maintaining balance, and setting meaningful personal and academic goals. Start…
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After months of living on your own and finding your stride, heading back home for Christmas break can feel like stepping into a different world. In this final episode of Season 1, Sam and Aaron explore what it means to reconnect with family after a semester away. From managing shifting family expectations to rebuilding strained relationships, this …
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Sam and Aaron, joined by CAPS Executive Director Mike Kunzinger, dive into a thoughtful and engaging conversation about why the church still matters for college students today. They explore how the church has evolved over the years, from its early foundations to its role in today's fast-paced and often skeptical culture. They tackle topics like fai…
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This Thanksgiving, Sam and Aaron are talking all about gratitude and how it can change your perspective in college. They share how being thankful can help lower stress, ease anxiety, and bring you closer to God. Using personal stories and biblical insights, they'll give you simple tips for practicing gratitude — whether it’s journaling, setting rem…
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Now that you're in college and moving into adulthood, what does it really mean to set boundaries with your parents? Sam and Aaron talk about how to honor your parents in a way that aligns with Scripture while also making space for your own independence. Hear tips for handling those tricky conversations about expectations, dealing with baggage from …
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How to Cope with Grief and Loss | Leah Horton
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How do you navigate grief and loss during college? What happens when you face changes — whether from the loss of a loved one, the end of a meaningful relationship, or shifts in family dynamics? In this episode, Sam and Aaron welcome CAPS counselor Leah Horton, who shares her personal journey through sudden and devastating losses during her college …
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Life-Giving vs. Life-Draining Friendships
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In this episode, Sam and Aaron talk about how to build friendships that add positivity and support to your life in college and grad school. Breaking down the difference between life-giving and life-draining friendships, they share tips on recognizing healthy connections and avoiding relationships that bring you down. If you're looking to strengthen…
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Why should you care about politics this election season? How do political issues like student loans, the cost of living, and job prospects affect your future? And how can you talk politics with friends or family without feeling anxious or damaging relationships? In this special election episode, Sam and Aaron talk about why politics matter for stud…
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Growing Up in Purity Culture | Ryan White
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Sam and Aaron team up with campus counselor Ryan White to unpack the lasting impact of evangelical purity culture. They explore how purity pledges and strict relationship rules from the 90s and early 2000s shaped young Christians' views on sexuality and self-worth. While well-meaning, these teachings often led to struggles with shame and identity. …
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Why Building a Biblical Worldview Matters | Dr. Greg Mears
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48:17
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Sam and Aaron sit down with Dr. Greg Mears to talk about why building a strong biblical worldview is so important. They explore why a biblical perspective matters, the challenges college students face when questioning their faith, and how worldviews shape major life decisions. Dr. Mears shares personal stories and tips on how to ask tough questions…
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What it Means to Forgive Yourself and Others | Dr. Jichan Kim
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What does forgiveness really mean? How does it affect your mental health, and what does the Bible have to say about it? In this episode, Sam sits down with Dr. Jichan Kim from LU’s Health Psychology Department to dive deep into the topic of forgiveness. Dr. Kim discusses the challenges we all face when it comes to forgiving others—and even ourselve…
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This episode is all about control — what it means to have self-control and understanding who is truly in control of your life. Sam and Aaron explore the concept of “locus of control” and how it impacts stress, relationships, and mental health. From managing tough situations with friends and family to dealing with anxiety, tune in for practical tips…
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Spiritual Disciplines and College Life | Dr. James Honeycutt & Bekah Jarman
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In this episode, Sam sits down with CAPS counselors Dr. James Honeycutt and Bekah Jarman to talk about spiritual disciplines and how they can fit into the busy lives of students. They share their own stories about growing up with different faith backgrounds and discuss how practices like prayer, journaling, silence, and solitude can help students c…
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Struggling to manage your money in college? Wondering how finances impact your mental health? In this episode, Sam and Aaron break down the basics of budgeting, exploring the difference between needs and wants, the reality of student loans, and how financial stress can affect your well-being. Listen in for practical tips to help you take control of…
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How Food, Eating and Body Image Shape Us | Emily Ellis & Lina Ramirez
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In this episode, Sam sits down with Emily and Lina, eating disorder specialists at CAPS, to talk about body image—something that impacts all of us, especially in college. They break down how social media shapes our perceptions of diet, exercise, and self-worth, often leading to harmful behaviors and disordered eating. Along with sharing tips on how…
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How do I set clear and effective boundaries? How can I tell the difference between healthy and unhealthy ones? What should I do if someone doesn't respect my limits? In this episode of Coffee with CAPS, Sam and Aaron dive into the art of setting and maintaining healthy boundaries in your friendships and romantic relationships. They break down what …
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How Do I Differentiate Between Healthy and Unhealthy Anxiety?
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In this episode of Coffee with CAPS, Sam and Aaron explore the topic of anxiety and why it's so common among college students. They break down the difference between anxiety and stress and introduce the concept of the "anxiety avoidance rollercoaster." Plus, they tackle common misconceptions about anxiety in Christian communities and how anxiety ca…
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Questions to Consider Before Getting Engaged
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In this episode, Sam and Aaron dive into the "ring by spring" trend that’s popular on college campuses and share their take on when it might be right to get engaged. They break down key conversations you should have before saying yes, including topics like kids, finances, and career plans. Is living together before marriage a good idea? How importa…
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In this debut episode of Coffee with CAPS, hosts Sam and Aaron introduce their new podcast aimed at helping Christian college students navigate the challenges of campus life. As experienced counselors, they kick off the series by tackling four crucial aspects of adjusting to college: coping with homesickness, forming new friendships, managing newfo…
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