Trauma Healing at the Intersections
of Faith, Justice & Education

In a world marked by division, disruption, and deep emotional and spiritual fatigue, how do we keep showing up—with purpose, with compassion, and with hope?

The BE WELL Podcast, created by the Trauma Healing Initiative at McCormick Theological Seminary, gathers theologians, practitioners, educators, and artists for deep and dynamic conversations about healing in these times. Each episode explores how trauma-informed approaches can help us teach, learn, and live with greater wholeness.

We believe that we can BE WELL.

SEASON ONE: Teaching, Learning, & Living in These Times

Listeners will be invited into deep, dynamic dialogues on what it means to live fully present — spiritually, emotionally, and socially — in a world marked by upheaval, uncertainty, and transformation. Every episode weaves together:

  • Personal – lived stories that ground our conversations in reality

  • Biblical – theological and scriptural insights on trauma and healing

  • Historical/Social – broader contexts of injustice and resilience

  • Enunciation – bold words of hope and renewal for the future

Meet the Hosts

Rev. Dr. Stephanie Crumpton is the host of the BE WELL Podcast. A scholar, teacher, and ordained minister who serves as Director of the Trauma Healing Initiative and Associate Professor of Practical Theology at McCormick Theological Seminary. An ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, her work centers trauma, pastoral care, and the intersections of faith and justice. Dr. Crumpton holds degrees from Columbia Theological Seminary, Johnson C. Smith Seminary, and Langston University. Her latest book, We Gon’ Be Alright, explores pathways to resilience and healing.

Adriana (Dri) Rivera is a theological educator and co-host of the BE WELL Podcast. Adriana began her seminary journey at McCormick through the Certificate in Latinx Theology and Ministry, later earning her Master of Divinity in 2021. She is now pursuing a PhD in Christian Education and Congregational Studies at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, with concentrations in Latina feminist theology and critical pedagogy. Adriana brings a passion for teaching, mentoring, and creating spaces where faith, justice, and healing intersect.

More About the Trauma Healing Initiative

The Trauma Healing Initiative (THI) equips pastors, changemakers, and community leaders to respond to trauma with wisdom, resilience, and care. Through courses, workshops, and resources — including a trauma-informed micro-credential — THI offers practical tools for engaging trauma, centering the well-being of both caregivers and the communities they serve.

Funded by the Lilly Endowment’s Pathways to Tomorrow Initiative, THI advances best practices in trauma-informed ministry, preparing leaders to guide communities toward healing and wholeness.

Back to Trauma Healing Initiative homepage.