EP6: Sexual Identity with Dr Julia Sadusky

About This Episode
In this episode of The YDisciple Podcast, hosts Pete Burds and Annie Grandell welcome psychologist, author, and speaker Dr. Julia Sadusky for a thoughtful and deeply human conversation about sexuality, gender, embodiment, and belonging.

Drawing from her clinical experience and Catholic faith, Dr. Sadusky reflects on what she wishes young people were hearing from the Church—especially around sexuality and chastity. She invites ministry leaders to consider not only what we say, but how we say it, and what it communicates to teens who already feel on the margins.

Together, they explore the strengths and challenges of same-sex small groups, the unintended harm of rigid gender stereotypes, and how well-meaning ministry messaging can sometimes miss the hearts of young people who don’t fit the mold. Dr. Sadusky also speaks candidly about eating disorders, body image, and the ways our culture—and our ministries—talk about bodies in ways that shape a young person’s sense of worth.

At the heart of the conversation is a powerful insight: many teens aren’t asking theological questions first—they’re asking relational ones. Does God like me? Do I belong here? This episode invites anyone working with young people to reflect on how their presence, language, and posture can become a living answer to those questions.

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Reflection for This Week

Take some time to pray and reflect:

• When young people interact with me, what questions might they be asking beneath the surface?
• How do my words, tone, and assumptions communicate belonging—or exclusion?
• In what ways can I better reflect the truth that every person is a body–soul unity, created with dignity and purpose?

Ask God to help you see the young people entrusted to you the way He sees them—and to respond with sensitivity, courage, and love.