Ep. 34 - Living with Empathy: Apartheid & Loss to Community & Hope

Written By Meredith Shuman | Founder, James Trail

Pastor Stuart Williams shares his incredible story of growing up during apartheid in South Africa, losing his entire family in a tragic accident, and leading a diverse church in Calgary, Canada. This deeply honest conversation explores trauma, empathy, cultural transformation, and the power of the gospel to heal.Whether you're in ministry, parenting, or simply seeking healing from personal or collective trauma, this episode is a reminder that vulnerability, silence, and presence can be sacred acts.

🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations about trauma-informed care, healing, and faith.This episode was recorded on March 27th, 2024. Stuart is currently serving as Vice Dean at Ambrose University: https://ambrose.edu/ambrose-university-announces-new-vice-dean-theology-appointment#:~:text=He%20has%20taught%20courses%20at,Williams%20holds%20a%20DMin.

Meredith Shuman | Founder, James Trail

As Executive Director of James Trail, Meredith is committed to serving organizations and communities where the gaps are the greatest. She brings over 30 years of experience as a therapist, a trauma-informed care trainer, and a parent. Meredith holds an MSW degree from the University of Texas.

She and her husband Dan, a global health physician have been married 31 years, and they have 5 children, 4 of whom are adopted.  Meredith loves a passport with lots of stamps (she loves serving in global settings and has lived cross-culturally), a water bottle with lots of stickers, a table with lots of people, and a mountain with lots of trail.

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Ep. 35 - Why We Need CPR for Mental Health | The James Trail Podcast with guest David Galvan (Part 1)
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Ep. 33 - The Power of Showing Up: Inside Replanted Ministry