EquipCast

Can love in marriage really last? I believe it can—and not because we’re strong enough or compatible enough, but because God meets us there. Staying in love isn’t something we just grit our teeth and manage. It’s something we learn through prayer. Prayer with the Lord shapes our hearts, and that same habit of prayer teaches us how to truly behold, listen to, forgive, and love our spouse. In this Coaches Corner, I review the book Spousal Prayer by Deacon James Keating. It’s a small, powerful book that connects marriage and prayer in a way that’s both deep and incredibly practical. We talk about why young people fear staying in love, how prayer brings us into the reality of love, and why marriage itself can become a living, breathing prayer. Whether you’re married, preparing couples, or walking with families in ministry, this episode is meant to equip you—and remind you that lasting love is not only possible, it’s sacramental. [00:13] Book - Spousal Prayer [01:05] Why This Book Works [02:09] Three Chapters Overview [03:06] Behold Listen Repent [03:36] Prayer Depth and Beauty [04:34] Practical Art Prayer [06:11] Love Prayer and Reality [08:44] Forgiveness and Healing [09:25] Appendix ARRR Method [09:44] Who Should Use This [10:33] Final Quote and Wrap [11:29] Share Your Thoughts Check out the book Spousal Prayer. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Today, we begin a series where I talk to Evangelization Coordinators from across our archdiocese. You’ll hear the honest stories, hard-won wisdom and quiet ways God is moving through the people helping to lead parish renewal from the ground up. In this first episode, Renee Eames of the St. Joseph Family of Parishes, shares what the role looks like day-to-day. Her warm wisdom reminds us that evangelization isn’t about big programs or perfect strategies—it’s about people. It’s about staying close to Jesus in the small moments, letting your heart be softened, and choosing unity when division would be easier. Her story reveals how simple everyday faithfulness—prayer, presence, and quiet accompaniment—can quietly renew a community. This conversation is a reminder that God works through every relationship, every interruption, and every act of love toward the person right in front of you. [00:00] Meet Renee Ames [01:20] Renee Background Story [06:52] Small Town Life [11:10] Family Of Parishes [13:20] New Evangelization Role [22:49] Keeping Eternity First [28:08] Prayer As The Root [32:08] Launching Alpha Locally [35:48] Teamwork and Formation [38:23] Back To The Fundamentals [41:41] Workplace Evangelization [46:04] Unity Through Hard Talks [49:53] Patience For Long Fruits [51:21] Practical Advice And Sendoff For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Welcome to the very first episode of Inside Jim’s Inbox, a new Q&A series where I open up the real questions you send—about faith, fear, evangelization, ministry, and everything in between—and we walk through them together. In this kickoff episode, I’m sharing the questions I hear most often: What even is evangelization? Do I know enough to share my faith? How do I deal with the fear of rejection? Along the way, I’ll offer simple, hopeful ways to see evangelization not as expert level work, but as sharing what God has done in your life one honest, hope-filled conversation at a time. We’ll also look at the questions parishes ask all the time: how to invite volunteers in a way that honors their gifts, and how to set healthy boundaries so that ministry strengthens you instead of draining you. My prayer is that this first episode feels like a welcoming doorway into a series where your questions guide the journey. [00:51] What is evangelization? [02:23] Do I know enough to share my faith? [04:00] How do I overcome the fear of rejection? [07:49] How do I get volunteers for our ministry? [09:56] How do I keep healthy boundaries in my ministry? [11:51] Next steps For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What if the ancient way of welcoming seekers is exactly what we’re missing? When Dr. Chris Burgwald, Chancellor for the Diocese of Sioux Falls, and I dug into the roots of OCIA, it struck me how much wisdom we’ve left sitting on the shelf. The early Church knew how to walk with people—slowly, personally, lovingly—and somewhere along the line, we traded that for efficiency. Dr. Burgwald shows why returning to this ancient, relational way of forming disciples isn’t nostalgia; it’s the key to helping people truly encounter Jesus and find a home in His Church again. And what’s amazing is that this shift doesn’t just change the journey for newcomers—it transforms the entire parish. When we implement OCIA the way the Church actually envisions it, gifts surface, people step forward, and a culture of prayer and hospitality begins to grow. Communities rally around seekers, and in the process, everyone gets formed. One person’s “yes” becomes an invitation for an entire parish to rediscover its mission. In this episode, you will learn: For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

*What do you do when the strategy, the program, or the plan just isn’t enough? * Because I’ve been there—and in this episode, I talk about why our “silver bullets” so often fail us. We love quick fixes, big programs, and shiny solutions, but real renewal—personal or parish-wide—only happens when we stop trying to use God and finally turn to Him with honest hearts. In this conversation, I walk through one of my favorite (and most surprising) stories in Scripture and share the uncomfortable but hopeful truth it reveals: God isn’t asking us for better strategies. He’s asking for conversion. If you’ve ever felt discouraged, overwhelmed, or tempted to chase one more magic solution, this episode will help you breathe, refocus, and remember that God has a plan—not a gimmick—waiting for you. [00:00] Welcome to Equip Cast [00:34] Silver Bullet Problem [01:42] Ark as Shortcut [04:50] Why It Failed [06:06] Modern Silver Bullets [07:43] Repentance and Conversion [08:37] Missionary Conversion Quotes [10:56] Trust the Mystery [11:51] Prayer and Sendoff For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What if everything changes when people finally feel seen, known, and accompanied? In this republished conversation from the Great Catholic Parishes podcast, I join host John Poitevent to unpack why this simple shift lies at the very heart of parish renewal. People don’t grow because we tell them to—they grow because someone offers friendship, listens without judgment, and walks with them patiently. I unpack how accompaniment transforms not just individuals but the entire culture of a parish, unlocking a sense of belonging that leads people to recognize that God sees them the same way. Together, John and I try to paint a hopeful picture of what becomes possible when a parish truly commits to walking with people in love…and how everything can change from there. [03:31] Defining Missionary Disciples [08:43] Why Write Clear Path [13:14] Four Stage Pathway [16:44] Safe Questions Culture [20:06] Belong Believe Become [22:53] Clarity Over Programs [27:37] Ministry Mapping Method [30:24] Ministry Mapping Epiphanies [32:16] Change Management Basics [33:15] Thresholds Game and Trust [34:59] Discernment Rosary Method [38:12] Adult Formation Priority [43:45] Making Formation Accessible [49:08] Rapid Fire Q and A [50:09] Sports Sidelines Mission Field [55:05] Listen to Parents Needs [57:18] Final Encouragement and Sendoff Don’t forget to check out Great Catholic Parishes. To watch the original interview, check out John’s YouTube channel. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What if your home isn’t just messy… but actually pulling you away from God’s call? I know—that question stopped me in my tracks too. In this week’s episode, I sit down with simplicity consultant Katie Sciba, and she helped me see something I honestly never connected before: the state of our space deeply affects the state of our soul. Here’s another one: Are your possessions shaping you into a disciple… or slowly distracting you from becoming the one God made you to be? Katie has this gentle way of revealing the attachments we don’t even realize we’ve made—the stuff we keep “just in case,” the clutter that drains us, the rooms that quietly stress us out before we take a single step inside. And she shows us how letting go isn’t about losing anything… it’s about creating the freedom to say a deeper yes to God. And maybe the biggest surprise: Could clearing your home be the key to hearing God more clearly? The more we talked, the more I realized: when our homes become places of peace, our hearts become places where God’s voice doesn’t have to fight so hard to be heard. This is practical, it’s freeing, and honestly—it’s beautifully Catholic. So if you’re craving more peace, more clarity, more space to actually live the life God is calling you to… this episode is for you. [00:00] Meet Katie Sciba: Simplicity Consultant [01:53] Katie's Background and Early Life [06:49] Discovering the Blessing of Simplicity [14:01] Dealing with Sentimental Items [17:58] Creating a Peaceful Home Environment [21:29] The Roots of Consumerism and Simplicity [25:20] Helping Others Simplify Their Lives [28:28] The Spiritual Side of Minimalism [33:51] The Iceland Experience [38:10] Practical Steps to Decluttering [51:46] Addressing Common Challenges [54:53] Client Success Stories [58:47] Conclusion and Contact Information For more from Katie, check out KatieSciba.com or email her at scibasimplicity@gmail.com. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What does it mean to face death well? When I sat down with Dr. Stephen Doran—a neurosurgeon, deacon, and man who’s walked intimately with suffering—I felt my own fears and assumptions around death get exposed. There’s something powerful about hearing someone who has been at the bedside of so many people say, with deep conviction, that death isn’t just an end… it’s a moment meant to be lived well. In this conversation, Steve and I talk about the healing that comes when we confront our mortality and the immense dignity that every person deserves at the end of life. Steve shares the story of his father in law’s beautiful passing, the principles every Catholic should understand about end of life care, and the spiritual posture that transforms fear into hope. If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to “die well”—or how to accompany someone you love through their final season—this episode will give you courage, clarity, and peace. Take a listen. [01:22] Meet Dr. Steve Doran [10:39] Living and Dying Well [22:06] Ethical Considerations at the End of Life [29:45] The Role of Advanced Directives and Durable Power of Attorney [32:55] Evangelization in the Dying Process [36:31] Accompanying the Dying with Compassion [41:43] The Meaning of Suffering and Love [43:51] Daily Sacrifices and Preparing for Death [47:42] Sharing the Good News at Death's Door [49:53] Final Thoughts and Resources For more on this topic, check out StephenDoran.com, his book To Die Well, or Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What if the biggest thing parents want from us is to know they belong? When I listen to parents—really listen—I hear something deeper than frustration about busy schedules or kids who can’t sit still at Mass. I hear an ache. Parents want to engage. They want their kids to love the faith. They want to grow spiritually themselves. But so many of them carry this quiet fear that they or their kids don’t quite fit in. And honestly? I’ve felt that myself. In sports leagues and school activities, parents often feel more welcomed, more supported, more seen than they do at church. That should get our attention. In this episode, I walk through new data from nearly 200 school and religious ed families across our archdiocese—and the message is striking. Parents aren’t uninterested. They’re not disengaged because they don’t care. Most are hungry for community, for guidance, for help passing on the faith… but they feel unsure, overwhelmed, or out of place. And the good news? We can do something about that. It starts with listening—really listening—so we can respond not with frustration, but with empathy, clarity, and hope. If you’ve ever wondered how to genuinely draw parents into the heart of parish life, this episode will encourage you. Give it a listen. [00:34] Understanding What Parents Want [03:40] Survey Insights: Why Parents Skip Parish Events [05:41] Challenges of Taking Kids to Mass [07:00] Biggest Challenges in Passing on Faith [08:15] Parents' Needs for Faith Development [09:14] If Parents Had More Time [11:14] The Importance of Listening to Parents [12:38] Closing Thoughts and Prayer Take a deeper dive into the survey data! And check out our Listening Circle Guide. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

How can we expect couples to live a sacramental marriage when they’ve never seen one lived? So many of the couples who walk into our parishes today aren’t rooted in the life of the Church. Nine out of ten aren’t attending Mass, many have simply “slid” into the relationship, and most have never witnessed a joyful, vibrant Christian marriage up close. And yet—we hand them content, classes, and checklists and hope it changes their lives. In this conversation with Ryan Verret, we dive into why that model is breaking down and why the real answer isn’t more information, but more relationship. Ryan shares the deeply human insight at the heart of Witness to Love: that authentic conversion only moves at the pace of a friendship… and that the simplest act—having someone waiting for you in the pew—can open the door for grace to take root. If you’ve ever wondered how to truly draw couples into the heart of parish life, this episode will encourage you. Take a listen. [01:13] Ryan Verret's Background and Upbringing [09:35] State of Marriage Preparation in the Church [18:11] Witness to Love: Vision and Approach [26:19] The One Change That Made a Difference [29:39] The Need for Comprehensive Faith Formation [32:45] The Mentor Couple Model [40:38] The Impact of Witness to Love [44:29] Personal Reflections and Broader Implications [53:02] Connecting with Witness to Love Check out Witness To Love, or connect with Ryan by emailing connect@witnesstolove.org. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What happens when we start trusting programs more than we trust people? Discipleship slows down—because programs don’t accompany anyone. People do. Programs support the mission, but people are the mission. In part two of this conversation on what really breaks a clear path to discipleship, we talk honestly about why great programming isn’t enough, how over commitment burns out your best leaders, and why accompaniment and simplicity matter more than adding one more initiative. If you’re longing for a parish that actually helps people take their next step with Jesus, this conversation will challenge how you think about ministry—and invite you to build a clear path that’s relational, sustainable, and truly missionary. [00:57] Defining a Clear Path to Discipleship [03:34] Number 6: Skip the Connectors [14:35] Number 7: Have Something for Everybody [23:51] Number 8: Start with a Big Public Launch [29:20] Number 9: Exempt Current Members [36:50] Number 10: Build it for Your Current Members [42:28] Final Thoughts and Encouragement ClearPathBook.com (https://clearpathbook.com/) For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Why do discipleship efforts that start with so much hope sometimes stall—or fall apart? In this episode, I sit down with coaches from our Parish Support Team to talk honestly about how Clear Paths to discipleship can break down—often before we even realize it’s happening. We walk through five common ways parishes unintentionally derail discipleship—and what faithful leaders can do differently. We talk about slowing down to listen to the Holy Spirit, why conversion has to come before strategy, and how real fruit grows through relationships, not just programs. If you care deeply about your parish and want to build something that actually helps people encounter Jesus and grow as disciples, this conversation will meet you right where you are. The Clear Path isn’t complicated—but it does require patience, humility, and a willingness to stay rooted in the Gospel. Take a listen—and let’s make sure we’re building with God, not just working for Him. [00:38] Overview of the Clear Path to Discipleship [02:20] Meet the Parish Support Team [04:10] Number 1: Don’t Discern [10:46] Number 2: Do it alone. [18:27] Number 3: Do it all at once. [26:50] Number 4: Wait for them to come to you. [33:49] Number 5: Assume Conversion ClearPathBook.com (https://clearpathbook.com/) For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

How do you keep the Gospel alive and at the center of your work? Start with the quiet, world-changing truth that Jesus loves you. He gave His life to save you. And He is with you today—right now—to enlighten, strengthen, and free you. When we put that message at the heart of everything—our conversations, our ministries, our families—it changes everything. In this episode, I’ll share why this matters and how you can make it part of your everyday life. [00:34] Understanding Evangelization [02:01] Defining Evangelization [03:22] Misconceptions About Evangelization [06:34] The Heart of Evangelization [09:54] Practical Steps for Everyday Preaching [12:08] Closing Thoughts and Prayer For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Is the ideal of priesthood stuck in the past? I love the saints—especially guys like St. John Vianney—but trying to imitate their circumstances can leave today’s priests feeling defeated before they even begin. In this episode, Fr. Scott Traynor and I get honest about how different our world is now, and why that’s not a problem to mourn but a mission to embrace. We talk about the heart of priesthood today: prayer, the sacraments, and investing deeply in a few people who can carry the Gospel into a culture that’s drifting away from Christ. And here’s the hope: renewal isn’t about going backward. It’s about priests doing what only they can do—celebrate, preach, shepherd—and unleashing the laity to live their mission with confidence. If you’ve ever felt the weight of expectations you can’t live up to or wondered whether your parish can actually flourish in a secular age, this conversation will help you imagine a future filled with purpose and hope. 01:21 Meet Father Scott Traynor 04:34 The Legacy of St. John Vianney 10:51 Historical Context of Parish Life 21:25 Modern Parish Challenges and Solutions 31:49 The Role of the Parish Priest 37:07 The Power of Relationships in Evangelization 48:36 Building a Leadership Culture in Parishes 51:20 The Transmission of Faith in Parish Life 56:18 Practical Steps to Start Evangelizing 59:18 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Books mentioned in this podcast: * From Christendom to Apostolic Mission (https://www.amazon.com/Christendom-Apostolic-Mission-Pastoral-Strategies/dp/099887289X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2E2L8F8IOB42N&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XqKmGIzYvYr-zvy0QndfgnMKCsZRmHDUNoxT0QFQ1VKN8K-x4U9-23N6FKaINctQRdcJ2Y-KVB1n9q_-02RXaQFu3JKj_D2UaFMsXio5iL8qHcWIkExs8O_RQWN2GNqJJz39d74ZuQZwV1PwrBCRnr1SVysF2YUXsfjFOua3ItA.pmztDhf-W2Kl7B86unRBY7RHm47SOnfQrSvoQv_tpHQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=christendom+to+apostolic+mission&qid=1761847022&sprefix=christendo%2Caps%2C128&sr=8-1) * The Advantage (https://www.amazon.com/Advantage-Organizational-Health-Everything-Business/dp/0470941529/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LV5AYGA5BPB9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.pPRUd5gbTy8ZS0gf6wabwlOFgACN0bQpmLwoTMrIGmSTxCYoPY0FjrfPBh7aQszRjXrnAKRFtbcIpW1JsaWGItGIeOK3Av_DAj8r_SozPM-ObY_W38owgx6dxP1T2hRY9ii4K1ROXgI8mCVsA1Lut0j8Cc4rihJCQbZElVqY7QDmHdcIT5Uv5OV2Z4t25hb4XfBPUeKbBrlsKU9ypcRgYcxgqCBNHlBWm5z0CuFe63Q.uOxeU74PuOLrlcqUskPl52pIBpNgGtBEvA_pam_L1ns&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+advantage&qid=1761846981&sprefix=the+advantage%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-1) * The Parish as a School of Prayer (https://www.amazon.com/Parish-School-Prayer-Foundations-Evangelization/dp/0984379290/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xjrcQDgEMBWlxKjai4BRe8shADNgx-7FbNGjGs3CLz6nrw22ye0_9Nd70NsI2Rlx21YZOMT3aA1ZW2-z7UtEr2CTvs364_wDKSyhYxJ6m-WC-OPad6HSoln9JoNy6DJQEVz48d0Ahi3gne4nixa6FNY3UnNog9KOYdaTgHm70rEvTZPzbvwaZBOcqrM6uF7HhEWNOKfX0n8N4F0W-DP1mQ.PrK21-PNy3S5lKIt-Iz0KFRarRz4CyIT9M1NJmkB7rw&dib_tag=se&hvadid=598657698172&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9189219&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=11773289655691973530--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=11773289655691973530&hvtargid=kwd-310940649083&hydadcr=8293_13544394&keywords=the+parish+as+a+school+of+prayer&mcid=b50e44803f3a31b880115cd37b4215b7&qid=1761846939&sr=8-1) For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Feeling stuck and longing for clarity? I invite you to take a moment to pause, pray, and discern where God is calling you. Today’s guest, Lisa Kelly, leadership coach, author of The Spiritual Path, and expert in Ignatian spirituality, shares an Ignatian-inspired process that helps you slow down, notice what’s stirring in your heart, and make choices with clarity and peace. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where is God leading me?” this conversation will give you hope and courage for the road ahead. [02:29] Lisa's Faith Journey and Education [06:54] Discovering the Ignatian Associates [09:43] Living in the Dominican Republic [13:42] Writing 'The Spiritual Path' [18:52] The Cycle of Growth: A Tool for Discernment [30:08] Understanding Consolation and Desolation [33:42] Markers of Desolation [35:33] Discerning Priority Relationships [37:51] The Importance of Environmental Relationships [39:52] Practical Goal Setting and Relationships [46:56] Personal Testimonies and Reflections [51:20] Leadership and Communal Discernment [57:06] Final Thoughts and Resources Check out LaStorta (https://www.lastorta.org/) or contact Lisa (mailto:lisa.kelly@lastorta.org). For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What’s on Pope Leo’s Christmas list—and can you fulfill it for him? He’s not asking for gifts wrapped in paper and bows. His wish is for a Church renewed in mission, united in love, and bold in proclaiming Christ first. Imagine communities that listen deeply, care tenderly for the least, and engage the world with courage and hope. That’s the heart behind his six desires—and together, we can make them real. [00:34] Introducing Pope Leo's Christmas List [01:32] Pope Leo's Priorities: A Breakdown [03:33] The Primacy of Christ in Proclamation [06:43] Missionary Conversion of the Christian Community [08:47] Growth in Collegiality and Synodality [09:43] Attention to the Sense of the Faithful [10:52] Loving Care for the Least and Rejected [11:39] Dialogue with the Contemporary World [12:38] Closing Thoughts and Prayer For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What do you do when silence feels safer than the truth? Rely on God to give you the grace and courage to do what your strength can’t: turn difficult moments into opportunities for honesty, deeper trust, and real healing. In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with Mari Pablo—a fearless, bilingual evangelist who isn’t afraid to step into the topics most people avoid. Together, we talk about how to build trust, speak truth with compassion, and bridge cultural and generational divides in the Church. Mari shares practical strategies for navigating sensitive issues like mental health and sexuality without fear—and without losing sight of Christ. If you’ve ever hesitated to start a hard conversation or wondered how to lead with both honesty and hope, this episode will inspire you to lean on Jesus and embrace the mission He’s given you. [00:58] Meet Mari Pablo: A Multicultural Evangelist [03:28] Journey of Faith and Ministry [06:17] The Call to Public Speaking [11:54] Addressing Difficult Topics with Teens [18:21] Building Trust and Authentic Connections [25:09] Challenges and Hopes for Today's Youth [28:58] The Importance of Being Present and Real [29:40] Influence of Parental Faith on Children [32:40] Personal Apostolate Experiences [35:17] Engaging with Hispanic Catholic Culture [43:37] Bridging Cultural Gaps in the Church [51:08] Invitation to Unity and Understanding [54:37] Final Words and Invitation to Retreat Check out In His Heart Ministries (https://www.inhisheart.com/) and Mari’s Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/maripablo25/?hl=en)! For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

What if the secret to transforming your parish isn’t doing more—but praying more deeply and trusting God to lead? We’ve seen it happen. The Diocese of Green Bay started small, rooted everything in prayer, and asked the Holy Spirit to guide them. The results were beyond what they imagined: seminarians doubled, schools flourished, and parishes once half-empty now overflow. In this episode, I talk with Julianne Stanz—a nationally recognized leader in evangelization whose own encounter with God set her on this path—about the real ingredients for lasting renewal. Together, we explore how prayer, vision, relationships, and simple, steady steps can turn hope into a movement. It’s not a program; it’s a way of life that lets God bring new life to His Church. [01:04] Meet Julianne Stanz: From Ireland to Wisconsin [06:33] The Power of Pilgrimage [10:51] Hope and Renewal in Ministry [17:49] The Green Bay Transformation Story [26:01] The Role of Prayer in Discipleship [32:46] Reflecting on Parish Identity and Discipleship [39:27] Recognizing and Utilizing Gifts and Charisms [44:58] Inspiring Change and Overcoming Resistance [50:02] Embracing Poverty and Resourcefulness in Parishes [54:18] The Importance of Pastoral Planning [59:02] Witnessing the Church's Global Awakening [01:05:58] Final Thoughts and Blessings Check out Julianne’s website (https://www.juliannestanz.com/) and download her infograph (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Managing-Complex-Change-at-the-ParishPDF.pdf) of how to minister through complex change at a parish. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

*Why isn’t “promoting vocations” enough to help young people discover God’s call? * Because so many can’t even hear Him right now. Their faith feels distant, the noise of the world is loud, and what they crave most isn’t another program—it’s a real encounter with Jesus and people who truly care. In this episode, I talk with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha, about what it takes to awaken a generation to God’s voice. We don’t need to push vocations—we need to till the soil: to build trust, community, and spaces where faith can take root again. If your heart breaks for the young Church and you long to see them come alive in their calling, this episode is for you. [01:05] Father Scott Schilmoeller's Background and Personal Story [05:41] Discovering a Vocation: College Experiences and Spiritual Growth [08:42] The Role of Community and Family in Faith [14:55] Understanding Vocations: Lowercase and Uppercase V [18:28] Challenges in Vocational Discernment [21:46] Addressing the Vocations Crisis [23:33] Discerning Your Vocation [24:24] Community and Evangelization [25:15] Youth Groups and Initiatives [28:30] Engaging Young Kids [30:06] Middle School and High School Faith [32:10] Supporting Vocational Discernment [34:11] Practical Steps for Leaders [39:47] Encouraging Vocations [42:41] Final Thoughts and Resources Check out OmahaVocations.org (https://omahavocations.org/)! For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

When the mission feels massive, how do you take the first step? We all feel the pressure. With souls on the line, it feels like we need big plans, big programs, big results. But what if the most fruitful thing you could do today was simply to take one small step? In this episode, I share four strategies that have helped me and others start small, build momentum, and trust that God will grow what we begin. Whether you're leading a parish, a ministry, or just trying to follow Jesus more closely, I want to encourage you: don’t wait for perfect. Start small. God delights in small beginnings, and He’ll grow them into something beautiful. [01:42] Strategy 1: Shrink the First Step [02:46] Strategy 2: Do the Next Right Thing [04:42] Strategy 3: Settle for Incomplete and Imperfect [08:43] Strategy 4: Biblical Encouragement to Start Small [10:11] Closing Thoughts and Prayer For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)