We all carry invisible burdens—pain, shame, anxiety, fear—but what if the first step toward healing is simply naming what hurts? Licensed therapist and author Monica DiCristina joins Elliot to explore the transformative power of naming our pain. They discuss gaslighting, anxiety, shame, spiritual bypassing, boundaries, and practical ways to regulate your nervous system when life gets overwhelming.
This episode is a grounded and hopeful conversation about what happens when we stop minimizing, start naming, and take back the story pain tried to write for us.
Topics Covered
• Gaslighting and emotional manipulation
• Minimizing pain vs. honoring pain
• How to set (and receive) boundaries
• Why childhood wounds still show up in adulthood
• Naming pain and regaining agency
• Anxiety as a signal—not the whole problem
• Soothing practices: breathing, walking, music, gratitude
• Shame resilience and identity
• Grace, faith, and the emotional life of believers
Monica DiCristina is a licensed professional counselor, podcast host, and author of Your Pain Has a Name. Through her therapy practice, writing, and speaking, she helps people identify and name emotional pain so they can heal and thrive. Known for her compassionate, clear voice, Monica equips others with the language and tools to navigate anxiety, shame, grief, and relationships with grace. She’s a trusted guide for those longing to feel seen and whole.
Elliot Sands is the host of the Live Faith First podcast—a dynamic space where faith meets real-world challenges. With a rich background as a pastor, school principal, health-tech co-founder, and now Executive Director of Faith First, Elliot brings deep wisdom and practical insight to every conversation. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he weaves personal experience with thoughtful discussion, tackling tough topics with clarity and compassion. Live Faith First is all about bridging divides—whether in society or the church—encouraging listeners to step beyond echo chambers and build real, meaningful relationships across the aisle, the street, or the table.
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