S2E3 // Knowing God beyond our Shame (Guest: Fr. Stephen Freeman)

In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Stephen Freeman to explore the complex and often misunderstood emotion of shame, drawing from his book Face to Face. Together we examine the crucial distinction between toxic and healthy shame, its relationship to humility and communion, and why the capacity to “bear a little shame” may be essential to becoming fully human. From the Genesis story to the Cross, from personal and pastoral experiences to contemporary therapeutic insight, this conversation asks what shame reveals about God’s intentions for us—and how it can move from rigid armor and isolation toward healing and love.

Listen on Substack, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or RSS wherever you get podcasts.

In this episode, we talk about:

* Is there a such thing as helpful shame?

* Shame in the life of the Christian

* How shame relates to humility and repentance

* Boundaries and the nature of God

Resources and links mentioned:

* Fr. Stephen’s book, Face to Face: Knowing God Beyond Our Shame(Ancient Faith, 2023)

* Fr. Stephen’s blog: https://glory2godforallthings.com/

* All music featured on this podcast is used in accordance with Creative Commons licenses. For a full list of the tracks we use, visit https://recreationpodcast.substack.com/p/music-featured-in-our-episodes

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Re-Creation is a podcast about trauma, faith, and mental health from an Orthodox Christian perspective. Hosts Nicole Roccas, a trauma-informed coach and author, and Eleni Opperwall, a registered therapist, explore what it means to be human after trauma through honest and hopeful conversations. Drawing on Orthodox tradition, professional insights, and personal stories, they share reflections to support healing, wholeness, and spiritual growth.

Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional mental health care.