Holy Hurt: Understanding Spiritual Trauma (with Dr. Hillary McBride)

In this episode, I talk with psychologist and author Hillary McBride about her powerful book Holy Hurt. We explore what spiritual trauma really is, how it shows up in our bodies and beliefs, and what healing can look like. We also talk openly about my own past as a pastor—how I once taught things that caused harm—and why I believe it’s so important to have these honest, healing conversations now.

Topics We Cover

What makes something “spiritual trauma”Why it’s so hard to name trauma that’s systemic, not just event-basedThe cost of being told you're broken at the coreHow our bodies remember what our minds try to forgetThe difference between real healing and spiritual bypassingWhat leaders and former leaders can do when they realize they’ve hurt othersHope for anyone starting to rebuild after religious pain

About Hillary McBride

Dr. Hillary McBride is a therapist, researcher, and author who specializes in trauma, spirituality, and the mind-body connection. Her book Holy Hurt helps readers name and heal from the spiritual wounds many carry but struggle to describe.

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Special Event

Josh and Hillary are doing a live event on June 26, 2025 in Abbotsford, BC, called Healing After Spiritual Trauma. Get tickets to this unique conversation and gathering. All proceeds will be donated to Fresh Bread, a charity dedicated to breaking down barriers in access to qualified caring therapists.

About Clear & Loud

Clear & Loud is hosted by Josh Harris—a writer, former pastor, and brand strategist. Through honest conversations and creative coaching, Josh helps people find clarity in the messiness of change. Learn more at clearandloud.com.

Clear & Loud with Josh Harris

Welcome to Clear & Loud, a podcast about finding meaning on the other side of shifting beliefs. Hosted by Josh Harris, former pastor and bestselling author, each episode features intimate conversations with individuals who have navigated profound changes in their worldviews. Josh's own journey from rigid beliefs to embracing complexity brings empathy to each discussion. Together, Josh and his guests explore personal growth, authentic storytelling, and finding voice in a post-certainty world. Learn more at www.joshharris.com

• No. of episodes: 39
• Latest episode: 2025-06-04
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