Adventures in Imperfect Living Catholic Podcast-logo

Adventures in Imperfect Living Catholic Podcast

Religion & Spirituality Podcas

Who knew Catholics could be so much fun? Rosary Army co-founders Greg and Jennifer Willits have been podcasting since 2005, first with the award-winning Rosary Army Catholic Podcast, then with The Catholics Next Door on SiriusXM’s The Catholic Channel. Now they share your weekly dose of Adventures in Imperfect Living, a funny and thought-provoking journey about living out the Catholic faith, raising a family, and trying to have fun along the way.

Location:

United States

Description:

Who knew Catholics could be so much fun? Rosary Army co-founders Greg and Jennifer Willits have been podcasting since 2005, first with the award-winning Rosary Army Catholic Podcast, then with The Catholics Next Door on SiriusXM’s The Catholic Channel. Now they share your weekly dose of Adventures in Imperfect Living, a funny and thought-provoking journey about living out the Catholic faith, raising a family, and trying to have fun along the way.

Twitter:

@gregwillits

Language:

English


Episodes

ADV #517: Are You Passive-Aggressive Without Knowing It?

3/18/2024
Breaking free from passive aggressive and co-dependent behaviors improves relationships. We talk about how to say what you mean and mean what you say -- with love. EPISODE 517 SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback LINKS DISCUSSED Mayo Clinic Article Co-Dependency Recovery - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Passive-aggressiveness and co-dependency, while distinct, both impact relationship dynamics profoundly. Passive-aggressiveness involves expressing discontent indirectly, through means like sarcasm or silent treatment, often due to confrontation fears. This approach can lead to unresolved issues and simmering resentment. Conversely, co-dependency involves an excessive emotional or psychological reliance on another, typically in relationships where one partner supports another with an illness or addiction. This results in neglecting one's own needs to prioritize the other's, creating an imbalanced relationship. Both patterns highlight the critical need for open communication and healthy boundaries to foster supportive, balanced relationships.

Duration:00:51:21

ADV #516: A Thousand Good Books

3/11/2024
Inspired by John Senior's "The Death of Christian Culture" and his list of 1000 Good (not Great) books, Greg and Jennifer explore how shifting their reading habits makes it easier to consume even greater books that are more mentally, emotionally, and spiritually edifying. EPISODE 516 SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The appendix from John Senior's "The Death of Christian Culture" presents a compelling argument for the revival of Christian values in the modern world with a view of increasing our ability to dive into Great Books (like those from Augustine, Socrates, and others), by first developing the fertile soil of our mind via fables, tales, poetry, and other literary works. Thus, the "1000 Good Books" list. While this collection is aimed at young readers before they tackle the "Great Books" of Western civilization, we suggest that given the watered down nature of content distribution in the 21st century, that we could all benefit from reading more of these books, which includes a diverse range of literature spanning myths, fairy tales, novels, and poetry. Senior emphasizes that these stories, rich in virtues like courage, love, and justice, are crucial for developing a moral imagination and wisdom from a young age. The essence of the "1000 Good Books" is to lay a foundational understanding of truth, beauty, and goodness, countering the utilitarian and relativistic tendencies of contemporary education. Senior advocates for a classical approach to learning, where character formation and the pursuit of virtue are prioritized. Each selected work not only holds literary merit but also possesses the power to profoundly engage the reader's heart and mind, fostering discussions on life's significant questions within family and community contexts. Ultimately, Senior's vision through the "1000 Good Books" list is not merely educational but deeply cultural and spiritual. It serves as a roadmap for a lifelong engagement with literature that enriches the soul and intellect, urging readers to explore the depths of Christian and Western thought. This initiative is a call to rediscover the role of literature in cultivating wisdom, virtue, and a richer Christian life, aiming for a broader cultural renewal.

Duration:00:50:27

ADV #515: Subjunctive and Other Weird Latin Things

3/4/2024
Jennifer might be enjoying her time as a Latin class teacher’s assistant a bit too much. EPISODE 515 SHOW NOTES & LINKS Other things we talk about: Demolishing the studio, Filming a new course for School of Mary about home enthronement of the image of the Sacred Heart of Mary, and lessons from another round of Total Consecration preparation. EPISODE SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback #catholicism #sacredheart #rosary #catholicpodcast #rosaryarmy #catholic #podcast #imperfectliving

Duration:00:38:24

ADV #514: Communism and Catholicism

2/25/2024
Join us on this week's episode of "Adventures in Imperfect Living Catholic Podcast" as we dive deep into the heart of resistance with Kristen Van Uden, author of "When the Sickle Swings." We discuss the awe-inspiring stories of Catholics who stood firm in their faith against the oppressive forces of communism throughout the 20th century. GUEST LINKS Kristen's Book - When the Sickle Swings Kristen's Substack EPISODE 514 SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - From secret Masses to clandestine clergy and peaceful protests that shook the foundations of totalitarian regimes, this episode explores the incredible resilience and bravery of individuals who risked everything for their belief in spiritual freedom and the triumph of their immortal souls. Kristen shares her journey of uncovering these stories, her methodology, and the profound impact these accounts have on understanding Christianity's pivotal role in history's ideological battles. Tune in to uncover how faith acted not just as a beacon of hope, but as a formidable weapon against the darkness of communism. Don't miss this powerful discussion on the episode titled "Communism and Catholicism" - where history, faith, and the fight for the soul of humanity converge.

Duration:00:52:43

ADV #513: Making Sense of Generational Differences

2/12/2024
We had a date weekend and discussed forgiveness, apologies, and how different generations regard relationships, work, and religion. Plus, preparing for Lent with Total Consecration and the benefits of fasting. EPISODE 513 SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback

Duration:00:58:08

ADV #512: Persecuted from Within

2/5/2024
Explore how saints overcame Church crises with Alec Torres, author of 'Persecuted from Within.' GUEST LINKS Alec's Website Alec's Business Persecuted from Within Book EPISODE SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - In this week's enriching podcast, we had the honor of hosting Alec Torres, co-author of "Persecuted from Within: How the Saints Endured Crises in the Church." This episode is a profound journey into the heart of our faith, exploring the realities of persecution within the Church and the resilience of its saints. We started with the pressing question: What is and isn’t persecution in the Church? Many might doubt the existence of such trials, but history and current events beg to differ. Torres masterfully dissected this complex issue, enlightening us on the subtleties of internal Church conflicts. He posed an intriguing question, drawing parallels between Judas' betrayal and contemporary challenges: "What are Christians to do when Church leaders falter?" This pivotal query set the tone for our discussion on spiritual fortitude in the face of adversity. Delving into recent history, we touched on the ominous words of Paul VI from 1972 about the “Smoke of Satan entering the sanctuary.” Torres provided an insightful analysis, balancing the focus between the last 50 years and the preceding centuries. He navigated us through the tumultuous waters of recent scandals like the McCarrick disaster and the 2018 Church’s response to COVID-19. His views on true obedience - following leaders without succumbing to sin or falsehood - offered a fresh perspective, especially regarding the dilemma faced by priests bound by their vow of obedience. The conversation then shifted to hope and inspiration. Drawing from John 16:33, Torres explained how he steered clear of fear-mongering, instead infusing the book with a message of hope. He shared practical steps we can take amidst persecution, echoing the eternal truth that Christ has overcome the world. Alex Torres' background as a former speechwriter for presidents and other dignitaries, and his role as co-founder of Allograph, a strategic writing and communications firm, clearly shone through in his articulate and persuasive narrative. His expertise brought a unique depth to our discussion, making complex theological and historical concepts accessible to our listeners. This episode with Alec Torres is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the trials within the Church and how to emerge stronger in faith. It's a compelling reminder that, like the saints before us, we too are called to endure, persevere, and triumph in our spiritual journeys. Remember, as Rosary Army soldiers, we're not just making, praying, and giving away rosaries; we're also fortifying our faith, learning from the past, and marching forward with hope. Tune in to this inspiring episode and let's continue to grow together in faith and resilience.

Duration:00:51:41

ADV #511: We Got Hacked!

1/29/2024
A scammer attacked our bank account. How we responded made all the difference. We talk about ways you can learn from our mistakes. EPISODE 511 SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback

Duration:00:52:47

ADV #510: Why we chose Catholicism

1/21/2024
One of us is a cradle Catholic. One of us converted. But both of us had a journey to embracing the faith where we had to figure out WHY should we be Catholic? EPISODE 510 SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback

Duration:00:57:04

ADV #509: Overcoming PTSD and Anxiety with God's Help

1/15/2024
Dr. Gerry Crete joins us to discuss his all-new book, "Litanies of the Heart: Relieving Post-Traumatic Stress and Calming Anxiety through Healing Our Parts." GUEST LINKS Litanies of the Heart [Book] Dr. Crete's Website Free Litanies Download EPISODE SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - All of us are wounded and in need of healing. In this new book from Dr. Gerry Crete, he accompanies you on your journey to overcome anxiety and traumas, big or small. You will benefit from his “parts work” therapeutic approach to find inner harmony, greater life fulfillment, and a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Dr. Gerry guides you in identifying and understanding past wounds to achieve healing and experience lasting freedom. You will learn how to enter into your inmost self, created in the image and likeness of God. You will also learn how to develop the “eight Cs”: to be calm, connected, compassionate, clear-thinking, curious, creative, courageous, and confident. Additionally, you will learn to foster the “five Ps”: patience, persistence, perspective, playfulness, and presence. The book includes three litanies: the Litany of the Closed Heart, the Litany of the Wounded Heart, and the Litany of the Fearful Heart. These litanies have been used by countless people to connect their inner parts with God’s love and mercy. The goal of the litanies is to bring you into a closer relationship with God as you release your fears and anxieties. We know that in God’s embrace we can find safety and that God can heal all of our wounds with loving care,” Dr. Gerry explains. “God truly knows us, sees us, and wants the very best for us. And God delights in watching us discover our true selves."

Duration:01:19:33

ADV #508: How We're Planning for 2024

1/7/2024
We finished 2023 strong and with lots of exciting plans for Rosary Army. We talk about some challenges and looking forward to 2024's plans. EPISODE SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback

Duration:00:45:26

ADV #507: A Very Moose Christmas

12/24/2023
Greg's buddy Moose fills in while Jennifer fights a cold. Inevitably, they slam right into the most controversial of Catholic topics. EPISODE 507 SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback

Duration:01:14:06

ADV #506: Advent Confessions

12/18/2023
Christmas is close, but we’re still in Advent. Why is it so difficult to focus on Advent, and what are we doing about it? Please support Rosary Army's 2024 Giving Campaign -- Click here! EPISODE SHOW NOTES & LINKS Join Rosary Army founders Greg and Jennifer Willits in this candid and often hilarious YouTube episode as they share the unfiltered realities of their marriage during the Advent season while running a Catholic nonprofit. From leaking coffee carafes to annual fundraisers, the couple takes you on a journey through the quirks of their daily life. Discover the unexpected comedy of toilet seat wars and closet light dramas, and get a glimpse behind the scenes as Greg tackles the challenges of running a nonprofit during the festive season. With plenty of laughter and genuine moments, this video is a delightful mix of holiday chaos and heartwarming reflections. Don't miss out on the fun - hit play now and join Greg and Jennifer for an entertaining and real Advent experience! #AdventConfessions #MarriageReality #ChristmasChaos 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback

Duration:01:01:17

ADV #505 - One Year After Losing a Parent

12/11/2023
One year after the death of Jennifer’s mother we talk about the importance and benefits of praying for the souls of the faithful departed. EPISODE SHOW NOTES & LINKS 🎥 Watch the full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback

Duration:00:36:28

ADV #504: Learn to Chant w/ Paul Rose from Sing the Hours

12/4/2023
Want to learn to pray (and sing) the Liturgy of the Hours? Paul Rose from Sing the Hours shares the benefits and encourages us to learn how. GUEST'S LINKS Sing the Hours Website Sing the Hours YouTube Channel Support Sing the Hours on Patreon Chants & Rants EPISODE SHOWNOTES & LINKS Watch full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The Liturgy of the Hours, also known as the Divine Office or Breviary, is the daily prayer of the universal Church, with prayers dispersed at intervals throughout the day to sanctify time and work. Daily practice of this liturgical prayer, which is steeped in the richness of Sacred Scripture, will give Christians authentic spiritual food, sanctify their days, and unite them more closely with the Church throughout the world.

Duration:01:04:31

ADV #503: The Impact of Rosary Army

11/27/2023
We finish the 20th year of Rosary Army by sharing amazing stories of this ministry's impact on the world and ways you can help us going forward. Support Rosary Army's 2024 Giving Campaign - http://www.rosaryarmy.com/donate EPISODE 503 SHOWNOTES & LINKS Watch full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback

Duration:00:34:17

ADV #502: Love Basics for Catholics with Dr. John Bergsma

11/20/2023
Dr. John Bergsma explains God’s love for us throughout the Bible as we discuss stick figures and Scripture. EPISODE 502 SHOWNOTES & LINKS Guest's Websites: Dr. John Bergsma's Website Love Basics for Catholics (Book) Watch full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback More About our Guest's Book: When you begin to see the Bible as a book of love, it will change the way you view love, sex, marriage, family, and your personal relationship with God. Walk with popular scripture scholar John Bergsma from the creation of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to the wedding between the Lamb and the New Jerusalem in the Book of Revelation to learn how marriage in the Bible represents the love between God and his people. Bergsma focuses on what nine biblical marriages tell us about God’s relationship with us. These stories include: Adam and Eve—who show us that marriage is the culmination of all creation and that marriage can be an image of the Trinity; Ruth and Boaz—who display the tenderness and virtue of a marriage; Solomon and his bride in the Song of Songs—who illustrate a positive, healthy view of the body and physical beauty; and Jesus as Bridegroom of his people, the Church. Using his popular, whimsical stick-figure illustrations and engaging style, Bergsma helps us understand scripture and salvation history in a unique, memorable way. He also provides insight into Church teachings on marriage and relationships—such as monogamy, the single life, the Sacrament of Matrimony, and Jesus’s words about divorce—to show how these teachings come from the love God shares with his people through the covenants in scripture.

Duration:00:53:25

ADV #501: Catholicism vs. Science

11/13/2023
Dr. Brian Miller breaks down what the Church really teaches about evolution, intelligent design, and how Science and Catholicism are intricately connected. EPISODE 501 SHOWNOTES & LINKS Watch full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback LINKS DISCUSSED Discovery Institute Intelligent Design Book: God's Grandeur: The Catholic Case for Intelligent Design - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - In an age of rising unbelief, top Catholic thinkers show how, more than ever, both science and reason affirm the words of the great Catholic poet Gerard Manley Hopkins: “The world is charged with the grandeur of God.” This book, edited by biologist Ann Gauger, clears up common misconceptions regarding intelligent design, showing why it is an argument not from ignorance but from knowledge and how the evidence for God’s design of the natural world is growing. Part 1 explores scientific evidence from experts in cosmology, paleontology, genetics, chemistry, and biology. In part 2, you will learn about the purpose of creation, transcendent beauty, and the distinctiveness of the human person. The third part lays out the theology behind creation and how it reflects God’s glory and concludes with Dr. Anthony Esolen’s essay on the “symphonic order” of the universe, masterfully drawing from science, mathematics, literature, and philosophy. You will also learn: really Moreover, you will learn how the understanding of ancient philosophers and Aquinas regarding the mind-brain connection, coupled with modern neuroscience support intelligent design and the creation of man as not only a material being but a spiritual being. Each chapter includes extensive references, enabling further exploration. The entire book will strengthen you as never before in the belief that the world is the creation of an intelligent and intentional Designer—One whose greatest longing is for you to spend all eternity with Him.

Duration:00:48:09

ADV #500: Five Hundred Imperfect Adventures

11/5/2023
We celebrate 500 shows since our radio show ended with our friends the Barrons and talk about the history of Catholic podcasting. EPISODE 500 SHOWNOTES & LINKS Watch full video here 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback LINKS DISCUSSED Mac and Katherine's Website and Podcast

Duration:01:21:11

ADV #499: Finding Peace in the Storm

10/30/2023
Figuring out God's will is tough. Doing it in the midst of life's difficulties is tougher. Dan Burke returns with his new book of reflections on St. Alphonsus Ligouri’s Uniformity with God’s Will. EPISODE 499 SHOWNOTES & LINKS Watch full video here - https://youtu.be/jJGuEYJ0-r0 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback LINKS DISCUSSED Apostoli Viae - https://www.apostoliviae.org/ Spiritual Direction - https://spiritualdirection.com/ Dan Burke's Book (Finding Peace in the Storm) - https://sophiainstitute.com/product/finding-peace-in-the-storm/

Duration:00:55:55

ADV #498: First Pilgrimage to Lourdes

10/22/2023
Recorded during our first pilgrimage to Lourdes, France. Visit the grotto, the healing baths, and marvel at God’s goodness in this holy city. EPISODE 498 SHOWNOTES & LINKS Watch full video here - https://rosaryarmy.com/lourdes-pilgrimage/ 🎓 Join School of Mary for Free! 🙏🏻 Free Rosary, audio Rosaries, and more 😄 Support Rosary Army 📺 Full Episodes 🍎 Listen on Apple (and leave a review!) 🔊 Listen on Spotify 👀 Greg's serialized novel ☎ Upload audio and video feedback via WeTransfer 📧 Email feedback ADDITIONAL LINKS DISCUSSED North American Lourdes Volunteers

Duration:00:41:03