Holly Oxhandler: The Soul of the Helper

On today’s episode Heather visits with researcher and licensed social worker Holly Oxhandler to discuss Holly’s latest book, The Soul of the Helper, in which she encourages caregivers and caretakers (both professional and nonprofessional) to recognize their need for stillness, rest, and spiritual renewal. Holly says helpers are prone to trying do it all and are likely candidates for burnout. She identifies seven stages that can help us see the sacred within ourselves so that we can better see it in others.

Heather is also back with our new segment for January called “Friends in the Kitchen,” featuring celebrity chef Danielle Kartes. You may recognize Danielle from her regular appearances on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Food and foodies are popular subjects among Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube creators and influencers, so get ready to take notes. And if you like this segment, make sure to email us at HellotoHeather@gmail.com and let us know. Danielle’s latest cookbook is Butter, Flour, Sugar, Joy. And you can find her quesadilla recipe below.

Guest Bio

Dr. Holly Oxhandler is the associate dean for research and faculty development and an associate professor at Baylor University’s Diana R. Garland School of Social Work. Holly studies religion/spirituality, health, and mental health, and is especially interested in whether and how mental and behavioral health therapists discuss their client’s religious/spiritual beliefs in treatment. Her latest book is called The Soul of the Helper: Seven Stages to Seeing the Sacred Within Yourself So You Can See It in Others.

Host Bio

Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I’ll See You Tomorrow and It’s Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter (@HeatherTDay), and on Instagram (@heatherthompsonday). Receive Heather’s weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7 p.m. EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links.

Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today
Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day
Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath
Producer: Loren Joseph
Mix Engineer: Alex Carter
Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper

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Danielle’s Ground Beef Quesadillas

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 40 minutes 

Serves 4–6 

2 tablespoons olive oil 

1 pound ground beef

1 medium yellow onion, diced

1 tablespoon paprika

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

Salt and pepper to taste

5 cloves chopped garlic 

4–6 flour tortillas  (soft taco size)

4 cups shredded cheddar cheese 

1/2 cup chopped green onions 

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil, beef, onion, and paprika. Fry until beef begins to crisp.
2. Add onion powder, turmeric, salt and pepper, and garlic.
3. In a separate pan, heat a tortilla over medium heat and sprinkle cheese over it. Then spread 1/4–1/2 cup of the meat mixture over top.
4. Add more cheese, then another tortilla. Brown both sides and repeat.
5. Top with green onions! Serve with sour cream, guacamole, and/or salsa. If your beef is a bit too dry, add a couple tablespoons of water. Enjoy!