The Catholic Feminist

Every single one of us has a story. A story of learning and relearning God, a story of breaking down barriers and building up good, healthy walls, a story of walking along a path to what we believe. Sharing these stories to help spread the faith is what Julianne Miles does on her podcast, Mystery Through Manners, and on her NEW daily podcast, Ruah Storytellers, which will air during Advent. Jules and I are chatting today about the importance of stories, the impact the stories of others have had in our own lives, aaaaand we also nerd out on what podcasts we've been listening to lately because get two podcasters in a virtual room and you KNOW that's going to come up. This season, let's look past the statistics and see the stories of the people behind them to help identify the true dignity God has given each and every one of us. Amen? Today's episode is brought to you by Every Sacred Sunday. Jump on their email list today at everysacredsunday.com to snag one of their stunning Mass journals today. Today's episode is also brought to you by Select International. If one of your 2020 goals is to go on a pilgrimage, the time to sign up is now! Head to selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more.

You've heard that you're supposed to "discern your vocation"…but what does that ACTUALLY look like? That's what Sr. Peter Marie of the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecelia is here to speak with us about! We're talking all about the vocations process over here for National Vocation Awareness Week, including what a come-and-see looks like, why it's NOT a bad thing to enter religious life + leave it before making final vows, and the importance of getting HELP + direction with your discernment process. Even if you're already in your vocation or not currently discerning, I think this episode is perfect for anyone who struggles with decision making and needs some encouragement in that area. Also, y'all, can I just say I love talking to religious sisters? Because I do. We need more of them for season 4, Amen? Today's episode is brought to you by Every Sacred Sunday. Jump on their email list today at everysacredsunday.com to snag early bird pricing today. Today's episode is also brought to you by Select International. If one of your 2020 goals is to go on a pilgrimage, the time to sign up is now! Head to selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more.

When we're asking women to leave behind lives of sex work, it's vital to focus on HOW they got to where they are and WHAT they need in order to leave that path behind. Today's guest, CarrieLynn Mascaro from Catholic Charities, is here to help us understand ways the Church is helping women stop selling their bodies. What I love about CarrieLynn's approach is the way she focuses on the systematic problems—like affordable housing—that leave women feeling like they have no other option. We also discussed whether she'd ever back a legal avenue for prostitution, what she personally has learned from the women she's encountered, and how her mom's recent death has been bringing her closer to God. This episode is a powerful one and I hope it resonates with you and empowers you to fight for women in your own community and globally. Today's episode is brought to you by Every Sacred Sunday. Jump on their email list today at everysacredsunday.com to snag early bird pricing today. Today's episode is also brought to you by Select International. If one of your 2020 goals is to go on a pilgrimage, the time to sign up is now! Head to selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more.

I am over the moon to announce that the Catholic Feminist Pilgrimage to France is taking place in October 2020—and I want you to join us. Come walk in the footsteps of our sister saints, sip wine with other Catholic feminists, celebrate the sacraments at gorgeous cathedrals, and make 100 new besties. More information at www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.om/pilgrimage.

When do we "shake the dust", when do we engage, and when do we shut up + listen? Today's guest, Alissa Molina, has some insight for us. Alissa co-hosts a spiritual podcast with some wonderful Protestant sisters and I had to ask how that challenged her or pushed her out of her comfort zone. I loved her insight on why it's important to not ONLY engage with Catholics, how she tries to advance the Gospel message, and why mean Christians make us angrier than mean atheists. We also talk about how being a Latina Catholic has impacted her feminism. Enjoy! (Also, when she says "Not today and not tomorrow either"…I died. Can we all start using that? Go away, Satan. You suck.) Today's episode is brought to you by Every Sacred Sunday. Jump on their email list today at everysacredsunday.com to be the FIRST to know when their 2020 journals are available. Today's episode is also brought to you by Select International. If one of your 2020 goals is to go on a pilgrimage, the time to sign up is now! Head to selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more.

When today's guest, Justina Kopp, suffered a miscarriage, she was completely devastated. She didn't know if she'd ever be able to have kids again. So imagine her surprise when she found out she was pregnant with not 1…not 2…NOT 3…but 4 babies. Y'all. Four babies. Let that sink in. Justina is on the show today to talk about the ups + downs of raising multiples, why she loves postpartum doulas, pregnancy after miscarriage, and what it was like to have a doctor encourage her to "reduce" her pregnancy. I am in awe of Justina's warrior mothering skills and compassionate heart. I know you will be too! (And HAPPY BIRTHDAY to her babies, who today turn 3. Praise God for their health and joy!) Today's episode is brought to you by Every Sacred Sunday. Jump on their email list today at everysacredsunday.com to be the FIRST to know when their 2020 journals are available. Today's episode is also brought to you by Select International. If one of your 2020 goals is to go on a pilgrimage, the time to sign up is now! Head to selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more.

Sometimes I think one of the most difficult parts of being a Christian is that our culture so strongly feels that certain things are "the answer" that we believe are harmful. Be it divorce, pornography, contraception…so many things in our society that are presented as a great good can actually be so damaging to the human soul. If we truly care about people, we view it as our duty to share that information to help them grow closer to the Creator and live a life that is truly joyful + fulfilling. But thats…awkward. And terrifying. Today's guest, Dr. Monique Ruberu, is a pro-life OBGYN. Talk about someone who often has to have difficult conversations! Dr. Ruberu is here today to tell us her story of becoming an anti-contraceptive doctor, what made her change her mind, and why she believes so many medical schools ignore NaProTechnology. We're also chatting about In Vitro Fertilization and Snowflake Adoption—what they are, what the Church thinks about them, and how to wrap our minds around these hard medical decisions. Today's episode is brought to you by Every Sacred Sunday. Jump on their email list today at everysacredsunday.com to be the FIRST to know when their 2020 journals are available. Today's episode is also brought to you by Select International. If one of your 2020 goals is to go on a pilgrimage, the time to sign up is now! Head to selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more.

When wife, mom, + producer Jeannie Gaffigan learned she had a pear-shaped brain tumor…it was inconvenient, to say the least. She had to learn how to give up a white-knuckled grip on control, find humor in heartache, and stop being the "executive producer" of her family. I loved her story about an atheist neurologist's response to her faith life and how she feels God was with her through this insane medical journey. As a long-time fan of Jeannie's wife Jim, I knew she'd be hilarious, even when talking about a brain tumor…and somehow, she was. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Select International. Head to selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more about trips that can bring you closer to Jesus and give your own faith life a jolt.

Justice is a complicated thing. It seems so black and white—bad guys vs. good guys, right? If only the world was so easy to divide in that way. Today's guest, Kathy Stilling, is a defense attorney (that attends my parish IRL!) Kathy is well-known for recently defending a Big 10 football player accused of sexual assault. Today on the show, we're talking about what happens when justice, truth, and #BelieveAllWomen collide—and explode. Kathy walks us through how she joined the Catholic church, how her faith powers her through her difficult career, and some reforms she'd like to see the criminal justice system make. This episode is powerful, complex, and may help you see people accused of crimes in a different light. (Also, for MAKING A MURDERER fans…Kathy is Jerry Buting's wife!) Today's episode is brought to you by Select International. For pilgrimages that will change your life, bring you closer to God, and help you understand your purpose, check out selectinternationaltours.com/feminist.

CRAPPY ADVICE: To be a good disciple, you need to sell everything in your house, grab a knapsack, and become a missionary somewhere. GREAT ADVICE: Discipleship does not have to be a formal ministry program, involve selling your iPhone, and happens when people are UNAFRAID. Today's guest, Katie Prejean McGrady, is a Catholic speaker who's one of our most requested guests. She's the author of multiple books, a wife + mama, and has some #THOUGHTS on how to be a disciple as a modern-day feminist. We know we should "follow Jesus" but it's not like we can pull up our GPS, or even 10 Steps to Living a Life for Christ. It seems so simple: Blessed are the meak! Care for the least of these! Raise up other disciples! But when you add a splash of real-life, it suddenly looks much more complex. But living the life of a disciple is the greatest adventure you'll ever go on. Today's episode is brought to you by Select International Travel. Take the adventure of a lifetime and rework your heart towards discipleship by hitting up selectinternationaltravel.com/feminist. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. For a free audio book, head to audibletrial.com/catholic.

How should Catholics approach problems on a global scale? Here's the thing—we can do more harm than good if we go into issues without a firm educational foundation. We can also do more harm than good if we leave our faith in the dust as we charge forward with a well-intentioned heart. Catholic social teaching is a set of tenants that informs how we should make global decisions and how we should love our neighbors, both next door and on the other side of the world. Beth King-Howard, today's guest, takes a group of young women to the UN's Commission on the Status of Women every year. So she knows that complex problems often need complex solutions. We dive into all kinds of topics, from whether capitalism is Christian to what topics she thinks Catholics should talk about more to the importance of having the heart of a learner. I pretty much think she should be the communal southern Catholic Feminist mama. 😂 www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/bethkh Today's episode is brought to you by Select International Tours. Hit up selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more about upcoming trips or organizing one of your own. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. For a FREE audio book (we're biiiig Mike Mulligan fans these days), go to audibletrial.com/catholic.

It's back-to-school time! Well, not for us, since I have two toddlers. But so many of you are headed back to school, whether as students or teachers. I'm so excited to be bringing you an insightful conversation with Emily LaPorte, a Catholic school teacher. But this isn't a lighthearted conversation about the ABC's. Emily + I are talking about both the joys and difficulties of being a teacher of small children. We also discuss things like whether or not kids in Catholic schools live in bubbles, why Catholic schools so often struggle with diversity, and what the pros and cons of school vouchers are. We also want to remind you that your education decisions are YOURS — nobody knows your child and his or her needs like YOU do. Also, quick shout out to any college freshmen. That was a really difficult time in my life + I'm praying for you. If you're feeling kind of lost, seek out your Newman center or see if there's a @focuscatholic team on your campus! ❤️ Today's episode is brought to you by Select International Tours. See the world + grow closer to God by heading to selectinternationaltours.com/feminist. #travelwithselect

Do you ever feel like your relationship with Jesus is…polite? Yes, thank you, I'm sorry, and that's about it? Today's guest, Kathryn Whitaker, talks about how part of her conversion to the Catholic faith involved deconstructing her boundaries with Jesus, and how one of the results of a deeper faith is implementing boundaries with others. Kathryn walks us through how to only say yes when it's a "hell yes" and how to STOP feeling guilty about that "no". We also talk about her new book, Live Big Love Bigger, and how a BBQ pilgrimage helped her family grow closer together. (If you're wondering what the hell a BBQ pilgrimage is…come closer, my sweet non-Texan listeners. Let me tell you about a faraway land down south.) I absolutely loved hearing Kathryn's wisdom and think this episode is perfect for anyone struggling with a full plate, a fatigued heart, and a lack of white space. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Audible. For a free audio book and free 30-day trial, head to audibletrial.com/catholic. Today's episode is also brought to you by Select International Tours. If you've wanted to go on a Catholic pilgrimage but all the planning makes you cringe, get it done for you by joining a trip at selectinternationaltours.com/feminist.

Is there an issue that just sets your heart on fire, but you have no idea how to get started on making an impact about it? Today we're talking to Lauren Roach, a Milwaukee activist (and the Community Manager for the CFP!) Lauren is tirelessly fighting to get pornography declared a public health crisis in Wisconsin, and she's here to chat with us about how she put a passion into ACTION, as well as some pornography statistics you may be unfamiliar with (like the link between human trafficking and porn). Lauren also talks about finding community as a young Catholic and what question has been bringing her closer to God lately. I know you'll be just as fired up as I was after listening to our conversation! Today's episode is brought to you by Audible. For a free audio book and free 30-day trial, head to audibletrial.com/catholic. Today's episode is also brought to you by Select International Tours. If you've wanted to go on a Catholic pilgrimage but all the planning makes you cringe, get it done for you by joining a trip at selectinternationaltours.com/feminist.

Q & A DAY! ✨👋🏻 I'm off exploring Poland with my family, so please enjoy this question + answer session. I solicited questions from Instagram and we wound up talking about everything from healthy boundaries to teaching kids about the faith to morning routines to dealing with discouragement. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Select International. Head to selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more about the amazing Catholic pilgrimages Select has to offer. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. For a FREE audio book, head to audibletrial.com/catholic.

I'm launching a new podcast! Don't worry, CFP isn't going anywhere. ;) This is a podcast about another topic near + dear to my heart--children's books and how they're made. In this minisode, I'm sharing the trailer + also explaining why I wanted to share this show with all of you, the sweet listeners of the Catholic Feminist Podcast. Basically, God? He answered some serious promises. + I want to take you all with me on this journey. If you're having a hard time finding it, search for "Claire Swinarski" or "makingamiddlegrade" in podcasts. You can also listen at claireswinarski.com/podcast.

What do sleep + self-care have to do with our faith life? As it turns out…a lot. Today on the show we have Carleara Weiss, PHD, breaking down how feminists can get more sleep, why women may have a harder time sleeping than men (#hormones), and why sleep affects our spirituality. Carleara + I also discuss how to get more women involved in STEM and the importance of 👏🏻mentoring👏🏻 women in your field. I love Carleara's viewpoint on her faith being strengthened by science and how we as humans are able to help each other by learning more about the world around us. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Select International. Travel around the world with experienced tour guides by hitting up selectinternationaltours.com/feminist.

When Jesus told us to welcome the stranger, He meant it. That's a principle that today's guest, Andrea Mendoza, is truly living out. She volunteers with immigrants within our country and helps provide them with basic necessities that enable them to live out their dignity. Andrea is also sharing her own parents' story of living in our country undocumented for years. Andrea will truly inspire you, but what I love most about her is the way she has turned her passion and empathy into real, concrete action. She's out there on the frontlines, not in a glamorous spokesperson-CSPAN-Good Morning America type way, but really getting her hands dirty and doing the work. As many people enter the US for a wide variety of reasons, we often focus on the (very important!) policies that affect them instead of focusing on the literal human person who has basic needs. Enjoy our conversation! Today's episode is brought to you by Audible. For a free 30-day trial and free audio book, head to audibletrial.com/catholic. Today's episode is also brought to you by the Blessed Is She liturgical planner. Head to thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner today to snag your copy.

"I work full-time in the pro-life movement, and even I've been getting whiplash." That's what today's guest, Morgan Korth from WeDignify, told me. I couldn't agree more. Every day, a new state is in the news for its newly passed abortion law. Today, Morgan is helping us break down the current state of abortion law in the US. We also talk about whether or not overturning Roe is really ENOUGH. I love Morgan's wisdom on engaging civically vs. disconnecting to contemplate + her passion for TRULY ending abortion, not just creating pro-life laws. My heart aches for the women facing a pregnancy that feels insurmountable during this season of life. I want nothing more than to make our world a place where mothers—mothers who raise their kids themselves, or mothers who birth them before working together with adoptive parents to give that child the best possible circumstances—can flourish. Today's episode is brought to you by Franciscan University of Steubenville. Join some former podcast guests and get an authentically Catholic education from the comfort of your own home by enrolling in one of their many graduate programs. Hit up www.franciscan.edu/tcf to learn more. Today's episode is also brought to you by the Blessed Is She academic planner. Every modern Catholic woman needs one of these stunning planners designed by former guest Erica Tighe. Live more liturgically this year by heading to www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner.

Let's talk about hormonal birth control. The fact that most Catholic women are on it, and the fact that few of us know what it even does. Today's podcast guest, Sarah Tramonte, is a registered nurse + an NFP instructor. Sarah walks us through what the heck birth control even does, why it's SO frequently prescribed, if there's ever an occasion where it might be the right choice for a non sexually-active person (her answer may surprise you!) and whether or not it's really an abortifacient. 🤯 Sarah and I also talk WHY so many Catholic women have turned to hormonal birth control. There's a severe lack of education in both our schools and pre-cana classes to teach women how fertility works and what a period should even look like. This lack of emphasis on such an important part of women's health is, IMHO, a glaring spot of sexism within our healthcare industry. Sarah + I talk about why she loves Marquette and who that method is right for, as well as what to do if you just consistently feel like NFP DOESN'T WORK for you. 😥 Above all, I hope this episode encourages you to take time to learn about your fertility. Whether you're single, have seven kids, or somewhere in between, understanding your cycle and this aspect of your womanhood is vital (literally, Sarah says your fertility should be considered a vital sign like your blood pressure or temperature). Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Franciscan University of Stuebenville. Join some former podcast guests and get an authentically Catholic education from the comfort of your own home by enrolling in one of their many graduate programs. Hit up www.franciscan.edu/tcf to learn more. Today's episode is also brought to you by the Blessed Is She academic planner. Every modern Catholic woman needs one of these stunning planners designed by former guest Erica Tighe. Live more liturgically this year by heading to www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner.

How do you keep living a life of faith after an impossible-to-imagine tragedy occurs? ✨ Today's guest, speaker and writer Leticia Ochoa Adams, is no stranger to grief. After her son committed suicide a couple of years ago, she decided to live the rest of her life sharing his story + walking through her journey of sorrow publicly. We talk about how to remain in relationship with Christ after horrible things happen and why "getting over" grief just isn't a thing. We also dive into what we call Catholic Celebrity Culture—why Leticia's passionate about exposing the media to different kinds of Catholic women, and why Catholic womanhood isn't one-size-fits-all. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Franciscan University of Stuebenville. Join some former podcast guests and get an authentically Catholic education from the comfort of your own home by enrolling in one of their many graduate programs. Hit up www.franciscan.edu/tcf to learn more. Today's episode is also brought to you by the Blessed Is She academic planner. Every modern Catholic woman needs one of these stunning planners designed by former guest Erica Tighe. Live more liturgically this year by heading to www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner.

You know when you hear God's voice whisper to you, and you're like…no. Wrong girl. Thanks, but no thanks. Today's guest sure does. When Sr. Marcia Hall was trying to figure out what direction to take her life, the thought of joining the Oblate Sisters of Providence was the last thing on her mind. But she eventually gave God her own fiat and joined the Oblate Sisters, which was the first religious order created for Black women. The order was founded in 1828 by 2 women who heard a call to religious life but were rejected by other religious orders due to our American Church's shamefully racist past. Now, Sr. Marcia is on the show to walk us through dealing with compassion burnout, having holy boundaries, and discerning our vocations. I loved learning more about the Oblate sisters, how a religious sister can practice self-care, and Sr. Marcia's tips for listening to your OWN call. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Franciscan University of Stuebenville. Join some former podcast guests and get an authentically Catholic education from the comfort of your own home by enrolling in one of their many graduate programs. Hit up www.franciscan.edu/tcf to learn more. Today's episode is also brought to you by the Blessed Is She academic planner. Every modern Catholic woman needs one of these stunning planners designed by former guest Erica Tighe. Live more liturgically this year by heading to www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner.

If someone called you saying that their house was robbed, what's the first thing you would say? Probably you should have locked your doors, right? Or maybe, Are you sure? Maybe you didn't understand what the robber was doing . Possibly That can't be true. I know your neighborhood. Only nice people who would never steal live there. Proooooobs not. I'm guessing it would be something more like, I'm so sorry that happened to you. Today's guest, Adele Smith, is a survivor of sexual violence. After her assault took place, her name was smeared (to say the least—there are literal blogs devoted to accusing her of lying) and she didn't believe her college did enough to protect her from her rapist. That's why she founded Dinah's Voice, an organization dedicated to ending rape culture on Christian college campuses. Adele is here to talk with us about what rape culture is, why we shouldn't be surprised that sexual violence takes place on Catholic campuses, and how we can embrace Christian values without letting them be twisted into victim-shaming. I was honored to speak with Adele and I hope her story inspires you. When we approach situations with a sense of love and a desire for truth, I believe we will find it. This isn't about #BelievingAllWomen or #MeToo'ing our way into a protest. It's about using our anger as fuel for justice and seeking the truth, every single time. Today's episode is brought to you in part by the Blessed Is She academic planner. Every modern Catholic woman needs this stunning planner in her life. Snag yours today at www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. How do I get dressed in the morning with two little kids? Y'all, Peter Rabbit on Audible. Grab a free audio book today by heading to www.audibletrial.com/catholic.

"And we will love naturally, we will try to do something. First in our own home, next door neighbor in the country we live, in the whole world." - Mother Teresa. I love Mama T so much I named a baby after her, and this quote is one of the reasons why. It's a commonly-told anecdote that when people asked her how they could change the world like she was doing, she told them to go home and love their families. The family is truly the bedrock of our Christian faith, and although volunteering and donating and going to the margins are all essential, I truly believe that loving your family is the number one most effective way to have an impact for the Gospel. Today's podcast guest, Brianna Johnston Hanks, is an attorney who works with families affected by foster care. When we think of foster care, we may have a picture in our head: selfless individuals who accept poor, needy kids into their homes and then go all Daddy-Warbucks on 'em. But the truth is, foster care is a complex, nuanced issues with lots of hope + lots of heartbreak. Brianna is walking us through what foster care is for, how to discern if you're ready to foster, and why foster care is an issue that needs to be discussed more among Catholics. It was truly an eye-opening conversation for me—to learn about how foster care is focused on the reunification of families and is meant to help families stay together reminded me so much of some of the core tenants of our faith. The same way we care about kids on our border, let's care about kids in our own communities who are experiencing the heartbreak of family separation and the people who have stepped up to stand in the gap with them. Enjoy our chat! Today's episode is brought to you in part by the Blessed Is She academic planner. Every modern Catholic woman needs this stunning planner in her life. Snag yours today at www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. How do I get dressed in the morning with two little kids? Y'all, Peter Rabbit on Audible. Grab a free audio book today by heading to www.audibletrial.com/catholic.

How come we never hear priests talking about race from the pulpit? I mean, maybe YOU do. But I'm pretty sure I literally never have. And that's not ok. It's a social issue plaguing our society, the same as other topics I hear about frequently, like abortion, poverty, and murder (the gang activity in Milwaukee, y'all. Fix it Jesus.) I have my theories. So does today's guest, Danielle Brown. Danielle is the associate director of the USCCB's Committee Against Racism. She's breaking down WHAT exactly racism is, why we have such a hard time talking about it, and the importance of "having a life that reflects the diversity that the Lord created on Earth." Danielle talks about growing up in a monochromatic Church and how her faith changed when she connected with other Black Catholics. She also shares what white Catholics can do to serve as effective allies. It was a phenomenal conversation and I know you'll enjoy listening just as much as I enjoyed having it! BTW, the audio in this episode is a little lower than our usual production quality—my apologies. We had a few tech issues and as you'll hear me explain in the episode…A MOUSE JUMPED OUT AT ME HALFWAY THROUGH RECORDING. So during the episode when you hear my typing, I am FRANTICALLY texting my husband to come home over lunch and set up mouse traps. 😂 (I did edit out when I shrieked OH MY GOD, though. Apologies to the Lord for taking his name in vein. But some of his creatures are nasty.) Today's episode is brought to you in part by the Blessed Is She academic planner. Every modern Catholic woman needs this stunning planner in her life. Snag yours today at www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. How do I get dressed in the morning with two little kids? Y'all, Peter Rabbit on Audible. Grab a free audio book today by heading to www.audibletrial.com/catholic.

When I started the Catholic Feminist, one of my guiding principles was to get as close to those affected by issues as possible. Talking about eating disorders? Speak to someone who's had one. Talking about racism? Speak to someone who's experienced it. Talking about clergy sexual abuse? Have a victim share their story. Today's guest, Krista Keil, is a Catholic speaker who's bravely sharing her story of adult sexual abuse with us today. Krista and I talk about her story, how she was able to remain Catholic after being abused by someone in a position of power, what she finds unhelpful when it comes to discussions of abuse, and how she responds to people who have left the faith due to the predator priest crisis. It was an honor to hear Krista's story today. This topic is discussed with grace but it may not be appropriate for little ears. If you've experienced abuse and need help and guidance, please call the national sexual abuse hotline at 1-800-656-4673. Today's episode is brought to you by the Blessed Is She academic planner. This planner contains everything from feast days to to-do lists to places for prayer requests. It's stunning, made by Catholic makers, and perfect for the modern Catholic woman. Head to thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner to snag one today. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. Audio books have made my life as a busy mom SO much easier, and I know they'll do the same for you. Snag a free audio book of your choice and a free 30-day trial by visiting audibletrial.com/catholic.

If only Catholic priests would get married, sexual abuse wouldn't be a problem. Everyone else abuses kids, too. It's not just Catholics. After the Dallas Charter, there's practically NO sexual abuse by Catholic priests. If the above statements make you 🙄🤢😬😡, today's episode is for you. Maggi Van Dorn is the host of Deliver Us, a podcast that covers the history of the Church sexual abuse scandals and how we got to where we are today. Maggi and I talk all about whether or not the Church is STILL covering up predator priests, where we go from here, and whether or not true healing is possible. This topic is discussed with grace but may not be appropriate for little ears—grab your headphones. Today's episode is brought to you by the Blessed Is She academic planner. This planner contains everything from feast days to to-do lists to places for prayer requests. It's stunning, made by Catholic makers, and perfect for the modern Catholic woman. Head to thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/planner to snag one today. Want to sail down the Danube River with Fr. Leo from Plated By Grace? See Salzburg, Prague, and MORE on this amazing trip with Select International Tours. Head to thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/tour to learn more.

I'm married to an immigrant. Now, he didn't claim asylum at the border to escape gang activity. His dad won something called a lottery (I always tell people he won it like in Titanic when Jack wins tickets…but that's not exactly accurate) and his family picked the US over New Zealand. They were escaping something serious, but less immediately deadly: a horrendous economy brought about by years of communism and no opportunities for upward motility in careers. Immigration is something everyone has an opinion on. I know the Hot Topic of the Moment is abortion, but it's interesting to me how many pro life people also care passionately about immigration. As they should. The crisis on the border is truly a pro life issue in that it deals with the dignity of human life. As a fifth minor dies in US custody this week, it's important to be talking about what life on the border is like and how we can implement effective solutions to make sure our world is a place for all people to thrive. Today's guest is Kelly Griffith, a teacher who formerly worked in a border town. Kelly is sharing her story about what life is REALLY like on the border—beyond the headlines and the pundits and the politicians. She's breaking down what may surprise you, what it was like when the family separation policy began to be implemented, and how the power of hearing each other's stories can radically transform our hearts. Enjoy. Today's episode is brought to you by Select International Tours. Join Fr. Leo on a cruise down the Danube River this fall by heading to www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/tour and check out selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more about the amazing trips they have to offer.

We're talking about abortion. Buckle up. Tune in to hear my thoughts on why we're talking about abortion all wrong as a society + often a Church.

It's what we're told to do without ceasing. It's my first recommendation for any struggle. It's at times the only thing we know to do. But…why does cultivating a prayer life feel so freaking hard sometimes? Because to be honest, the Rosary can feel SO dry. I want to snuggle up with my Bible and a candle and coffee but, um, my kids wake up at 6:30 and if I don't workout beforehand I feel like a lunatic all day. I love the idea of having this really steady prayer routine but I just struggle to really crank it out. When I was a FOCUS missionary, I did a daily holy hour, but these days, I'm lucky to get in 15 solid minutes of chitchat time with Jesus. That's partly why I dubbed 2019 my year of prayer: I want to positively drench my life, family, vocation, and days in prayer. But…aren't I supposed to WANT to pray? How come half the time I get ready to pray I just feel totally blah? Today's guest, speaker and author Chika Anyanwu, chats with me about all things prayer. We talk about what our prayer lives look like, how to get over that "have to" syndrome, and why people hate the phrase #ThoughtsAndPrayers. It's truly one of my favorite conversations I've had on the show and I hope it resonates with you today. Today's episode is brought to you by Select International Tours. Join Fr. Leo on a cruise down the Danube River this fall by heading to www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/tour and check out selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more about the amazing trips they have to offer.

Who gets a miracle? It seems like a weird question. But miracles happen—and one happened to today's guest. When hearing the story of her son's birth, trauma, and miraculous recovery, though, one question that stopped me in my tracks and weighed on my heart was why Bonnie? Not that she's not awesome—because she is—but because so many praying parents lose children every day. Bonnie + I unpack this a bit after she tells her story, explains how saints utilize miracles to become canonized, and why Archbishop Fulton Sheen's cause is paused. We also dive into her live as a Catholic blogger and why blogging has transformed from what it used to be. Bonnie's story is heartfelt and vulnerable, and I hope listening to it opens a dialogue between you and your Creator. Today's episode is brought to you by Select International Tours. Ever wanted to sail the Danube River with Father Leo Patalinghug and have the cultural and spiritual experience of a life time? This November, Select International wants to take you on an all-inclusive pilgrimage with Daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, and more. Check out www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/tour to book your spot today, and www.selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more about the amazing trips Select International has to offer and get $100 off any tour package. Give your spiritual life a jolt by traveling abroad without having to stress about planning your perfect pilgrimage. Select International has you covered.

You know that sinking feeling you get when you realize you haven't been to Confession in 6 months, or when your friend casually mentions she hit up daily Mass with her three kids, or when you struggle to fit five minutes of prayer into your day? That I-suck-I'm-lukewarm-God-thinks-I'm-lazy feeling? That's spiritual perfectionism, and it's not of the Spirit. Today's guest, Colleen Carroll Campbell, is something of an expert on this topic. A mom, former presidential speechwriter, and Catholic speaker, Colleen's new book The Heart of Perfection reminds us why we should trade in our view of "perfect" for God's. We chat about which saints inspired her, the importance of cultivating joy in our lives, and how to check ourselves and make sure we aren't being Pharisees. Colleen is truly one of my favorite authors so it was an honor to have her on the show! Enjoy. Today's episode is brought to you by Select International Tours. Ever wanted to sail the Danube River with Father Leo Patalinghug and have the cultural and spiritual experience of a life time? This November, Select International wants to take you on an all-inclusive pilgrimage with Daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, and more. Check out www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/tour to book your spot today, and www.selectinternationaltours.com/feminist to learn more about the amazing trips Select International has to offer. Give your spiritual life a jolt by traveling abroad without having to stress about planning your perfect pilgrimage. Select International has you covered.

We often talk about postpartum care in terms of nursing or sleep deprivation…but what about the spiritual and emotional side of things? Today's chat is with Rebecca Christian of Fiat Doula Services. Rebecca is walking us through why she decided to transition from screenwriting to doula services, why she focuses her practice on postpartum care, and what moms who are struggling in the postpartum stage of life can do to begin to feel like themselves again. We also talk about how silence has been bringing her closer to God (I feel like so many of our guests say this!) and Rebecca generously provided our listeners with a list of Catholic birth affirmations! Make sure to head to our show notes to get your hands on those and send them to a friend who will be giving birth soon. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Audible. Snag a free audio book and a free 30-day trial by heading to audibletrial.com/catholic.

When you're doing intensely emotional work, burnout is common. My dear friend Megan is on the show today to discuss her experience working in social services with young people on the autism spectrum and what a period of unemployment after burnout taught her God and His faithfulness. We also talk about how Megan has been able to find Catholic community as a single young adult. You'll love her thoughts on disability advocacy, her passion for honoring the gifts of our brothers and sisters with disabilities, and how she made changes in her life to avoid yet again reaching that state of emotional, spiritual, and physical burnout. It's a great chat and I hope you enjoy it!

EPISODE 100! In today's show, I'm sharing five things I've learned over the past 100 episodes and what you can expect from the Catholic Feminist moving forward. It's been such a joy to be with you these past 2 years (don't worry, we're not going anywhere right now!) and I am so grateful for you. YOU. I'm praying for the listeners of the show extra hard.

"Fragility makes us strong. You can't be sensitive to other people's needs or aware of what's going on without you unless you have a certain amount of fragility. You have to be able to be moved by the people around you." That's just ONE of the many mic drops on today's episode. Sara Racicot and Noel Hrnchir are the co-hosts of Way of the Wildflowers, a podcast for women. When you hear women compared to flowers, it's easy to roll your eyes'we're not fragile! We're tough and strong and fierce and formidable! But when Sara and Noel explain their passion for blooming where you're planted and feeling impacted by others, you'll feel a whole new passion for living like a wildflower. We also chat about why the Church needs women in all walks of life, the essentialness of vulnerability, Noel's tips for flourishing in your faith at a public university, and what's been bringing the pair closer to God. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Audible. To snag a free audio book, head to audibletrial.com/catholic.

Political conversations these days tend to get ridiculously heated. How can we speak the truth of the Gospel without becoming a clanging cymbal? Political writer Kathryn Jean Lopez is here to help us understand some tenants of Catholic communication, understand how to keep the hope in a despairing world, and helping us break out of our political boxes. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Audible. For a free audio book, head to audibletrial.com/catholic. Today's episode is also brought to you by Sock Religious. For 10% off a pair of cozy Catholic socks, check out sockreligious.com and enter FEM10 at checkout.

Full disclosure: I FREQUENTLY tell people that our show isn't super heavy on theology. Because it's not! But today's guest, Amy O'Connell, has a Master's in theology and she's here to explain to us WHY women theologians are so important. We also talk about running a literary journal in a clickbait world, creating content that appeals to both men and women, and how the Rosary is bringing her closer to God. Enjoy! Today's episode is brought to you by Sock Religious. For 10% off a pair of cozy, comfy, Catholic socks, enter FEM10 at checkout at sockreligious.com. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. For a FREE audio book, head to audibletrial.com/catholic.

Being a working mom can have plenty of "bumps" in the road (…see what I did there?) but your postpartum rights shouldn't be one of them. I absolutely loved chatting with attorney Emily Kearney on today's show! Emily has experience in postpartum rights in the workplace and speaking with her about our rights if we're returning to a secular workplace post-childbirth was fascinating. We also talked about her work in the area of broader disability rights, why she feels we're so indifferent about ableist discrimination, and why these are pro-life issues. This episode is a total powerhouse of legal, empowering goodness—enjoy! Emily also provided us with an INCREDIBLY generous handout on our rights as moms int he workplace. Head to the show notes at www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/shownotes/emilyk to snag her free download. Today's episode is brought to you by Sock Religious. Snag 10% off a pair of cozy, Catholic socks by entering FEM10 at checkout. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. Head to audibletrial.com/catholic for a free audio book! (If you're into parenting books, I personally loved Bringing Up Bebe!)

Today is Ash Wednesday. As we dive into the 40 days before Christ's death and resurrection, you may have incorporated Bible reading into your Lenten journey. But lets be honest…how many of us try and tiptoe around the Old Testament? That half of the Bible can seem crazy, confusing, and straight up overwhelming. But today's podcast guest, author Danielle Bean, believes there are strong connections to be drawn between the women of the Old Testament and the #MeToo movement. I loved chatting with Danielle about which women in Bible have influenced her the most, how her family incorporates Bible time, and how she lets the women of Scripture influence the way she raises her daughters as feminists. If you're super hungry and need something to keep your mind off your rumbling stomach, enjoy! This episode was brought to you by Audible. For a free audio book and free 30-day trial, head to audibletrial.com/catholic. This episode was also brought to you by Sock Religious. For 10% off a pair of Catholic socks, enter FEM10 at checkout.

As I've said on the show many times before, Dorothy Day is a huge inspiration of mine + was one of the catalysts that caused me to start this podcast. That's one of the reasons I was so excited to have Shannon Evans on the show to talk about her experience working in Catholic Worker houses, a movement that was founded by Dorothy Day. But Shannon and I also dive deep into adoption, embracing our weaknesses, why people are so afraid of the phrase "social justice", and what it means to truly operate as part of the larger body of Christ. Also, I loved her insight on her shifting view of "doing ministry", specifically in the context of my own life. I share with her what I feel like God's been saying to me lately and how it's leaving me struggling to understand which direction He wants me to walk in. Overall, it was such a joy to chat with Shannon and I hope you enjoy our chat! This episode was brought to you by Audible. For a free audio book, head to audibletrial.com/catholic. This episode was also brought to you by Jane Heir by Veronica Cristero . For a paperback, e-book, or audio version of this modern retelling of the classic romance, head to veronicacristero.com.

Do you know what it's like to put your heart + soul into a work of creativity…and be rejected? I sure do—and so does Ashlee Cowles, today's guest and the author of YA novel BENEATH WANDERING STARS. Ashlee + I are chatting all about writing, her creative process, and why she thinks its important to market her book not as a "Catholic book" even though it has themes of truth and beauty. We also talk about which book is bringing her closer to God and how her pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago influenced her writing. I loved hearing about Ashlee's journey and I hope you do too! Today's episode is brought to you by Audible. For a free audio book and a free 30-day trial, head to audibletrial.com/catholic. Today's episode is also brought to you by Jane Heir by Veronica Cristero. To snag the paperback, e-book, or audio book of this modern retelling of the classic tale, head to veronicacristero.com.

This week on the show, we're speaking with Emma Moran and Elise Gallagher, the founders of the Catholic Women in Business Foundation. We're chatting about all things BIBLICAL BUSINESS: the modern business advice we can't stand, their advice for women looking to launch new projects, and why women so desperately need community. Today's episode is brought to you by Jane Heir by Veronica Cristero. Head to veronicacristero.com to snag the book in audio, e-book, or paperback format. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. For a free audio book, head to audibletrial.com/catholic.

IT'S SEASON 3! 🎙 We're BACK with another round of women to inspire you, inform you, + help you lead a more intentional life. Our season 3 premiere guest is no exception. I saw Sarah Kroger leading worship at SEEK and knew I had to have her on the show. Sarah is a singer and songwriter (Audrey Assad produced her new album…heard of her? 😂) with a heart for Jesus. We talk about how her music has been inspired by Henri Nouwen, how her history with mental health has been integrated into her music, and how she balances focusing on the craft of music with having a prayer experience while performing. Also, her answer for what's bringing her closer to God lately might surprise you! Whether you're a well-known musician or, uh, deeply musically challenged (…hi 🙋🏼‍♀️), I hope this episode serves you! Today's episiode is brought to you by Jane Heir by Veronica Cristero. Grab this modern retelling of the classic romance in paperback, e-book, or audio format at veronicacristero.com. Today's episode is also brought to you by Audible. Snag a free audio book of your choice by heading to audibletrial.com/catholic.

I had the honor of attending SEEK 2019 and hosted a live show in the middle of the exhibits! I chatted with a FOCUS missionary, a couple of attendees, and speakers Anna Carter and Sr. Miriam. Apologies for the low-quality audio...live show, so didn't have a ton of control!

Weep with those who weep. St. Paul reminds us in Scripture to participate in the sorrow of others, and today's guest, Dr. Melissa Mark, is a pediatric oncologist with no shortage of grief. But when I went into today's interview, I expected to be chatting about how she stays strong and bringing Jesus into dark places. Instead, she blew my mind with her wisdom on why witnessing death is an honor and how Jesus is already present in every place imaginable. We also chat about being a working mom, how she evangelizes in her workplace in an ethical, loving way, and how she makes it work being married to another doctor. WARNING: WE DISCUSS THE MAN IN THE RED SUIT WHO MAY OR MAY NOT COME TO YOUR HOUSE ON DECEMBER 25. Be warned—this episode may spoil some things for those with little ears! Thanks for tuning in to our SEASON TWO FINALE—see you in February! Today's episode is brought to you by the Meaningful Market. For 20% off gifts for friends, family, or yourself, enter TCFpod20 at checkout at meaningfulmarketshop.com. Today's episode is also brought to you by the Catholic Relief Services Ethical Trade Holiday Gift Guide. You can be sure the gifts you give are well received and well made by shopping at ethicaltrade.crs.org.

Studies show that reading isn't just a fun hobby—it makes you more empathetic, increases your intelligence, and opens doors that were previously closed. That's why today's guest is such an inspiration to me! Shanel Adams is the founder of Progressionista, a Detroit-based non-profit aimed at increasing literacy among young girls, introducing them to literature, and helping them learn about different career opportunities available to them. All of our guests have amazing stories to share, and Shanel is no different, but her story in particular is timely for me—I recently achieved a life-long dream and signed a 2-book deal with HarperCollins for two children's books that will be coming out in 2020 and 2021. Shanel and I geek out about our favorite books, why she loves Detroit, and how journaling is bringing her closer to God. Also, I frequently get emails asking for more conversion stores—Shanel became a Catholic THIS YEAR, and the story of her journey to Catholicism is beautiful. Enjoy! PS: Today's episode is brought to you by the Meaningful Market. For 20% off gifts for friends, family, or yourself, enter TCFpod20 at checkout at meaningfulmarketshop.com. PPS: Today's episode is also brought to you by the Catholic Relief Services Ethical Trade Holiday Gift Guide. You can be sure the gifts you give are well received and well made by shopping at ethicaltrade.crs.org.

Women don't need a collar to lead. That's just ONE of the wisdom nuggets today's guest drops. Elise Italiano is the director of the GIVEN Institute, a non-profit aimed at activating the gifts of young adult women for the Catholic Church and the world. A former theology and bioethics teacher, Elise is on the show to chat about the necessity of women as leaders in the Church. We chat about what women bring to the table, why so many millennial women are leaving the Church, and what forces we need to combat to ensure women have a seat at the table. Enjoy! PS: Today's episode is brought to you by Pink Salt Riot. Design the perfect gift and get free shipping + 10% off orders over $30 with code catholicfeminist. Head to http://pinksaltriot.com. PPS: Today's episode is also brought to you by the Catholic Relief Services Ethical Trade Holiday Gift Guide. You can be sure the gifts you give are well received and well made by shopping at ethicaltrade.crs.org.

For us Americans, tomorrow is Thanksgiving. That means turkey, parades, football, (whitewashed stories about pilgrims and Native Americans that aren't 100% accurate and should probably be looked at much deeper than they are but that's a post for another time), and family. For some of us, being with our families is a true joy that we look forward to all year. But for some of us, being with family is very difficult and can bring out some tough emotions. That's why there's no better time for a chat about emotionally healthy spirituality. Today on the show, we're chatting with Lisa Brenninkmeyer, the founder of Walking With Purpose. Lisa and I talk about what emotionally healthy spirituality looks like, how to take care of yourself during emotionally volatile times, how to build up a community around you that you can be 100% yourself with, and how to seek healing from emotional wounds. So if you're currently driving to your in-laws or cousins or grandparents for Thanksgiving, I hope we can keep you company for the car ride! Also, there's no better time to express my immense gratitude for you, dear listener, for allowing me to have my dream job. To show my appreciation, we'll be joining in the good ole fashioned tradition of discounts this holiday shopping weekend. From today to Cyber Monday (11/21, 11/22, 11/23, 11/24, 11/25, and 11/26) you can take 20% off anything in the Catholic Feminist Shop with the code THANKSGIVING. I'm also bringing back our book preorder deal for those days only--if you shoot me a proof of purchase (Amazon, AveMariaPress.com, or Barnes and Noble confirmation) of Girl, Arise to [email protected] with the EXACT subject line PREORDER, you'll receive a discount code for 25% off 40 Days to a Feminist Faith, a free copy of our social justice Bible study, and our bonus episode with Mallory Smyth of Endow. PS: Today's episode is brought to you by the Catholic Relief Services Ethical Trade Holiday Gift Guide. You can be sure the gifts you give are well received and well made by shopping at ethicaltrade.crs.org. PPS: Today's episode is also brought to you by Pink Salt Riot. Design the perfect gift and get free shipping + 10% off orders over $30 with code catholicfeminist. Head to www.pinksaltriot.com.

Sometimes at the end of the day, I just need to curl up with some Food Network. But is zoning out like that okay, or am I supposed to be, like, reading the Bible and listening to Hillsong? That's what today's guest, Jessamyn Anderson, has come on the show to discuss. Jessamyn works in communications for Love Good Culture, a gift service focused on building a better culture through media. She's also a singer and jewelry designer with a love for art, the BBC, and historical fiction. Jessamyn and I chat about how our media influences our culture and whether or not there's even such a thing as "good" or "bad" media. Enjoy! For sign-ups for the #GreaterThanGold ethical shopping challenge, head to www.thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/shownotes/jessamyn. Today's episode is brought to you by Meaningful Market, a shop that believes beauty and justice go hand in hand. For 20% off your first order, head to http://meaningfulmarketshop.com and enter TCFpod20 at checkout. Today's episode is also brought to you by Branded Beauty, an e-course on branding for the new evangelization by Pink Salt Riot founder Jill Simons. Enter CATHOLICFEMINIST for 25% off your course. Jill will be actively leading the course in the Facebook group from Jan 14- Feb 22, but people that sign up will have immediate access to the whole thing immediately just in time to put some new branding into practice before the holidays. Head to http://brandingforthenewevangelization.com and click on "Branded Beauty". Don't forget to preorder GIRL, ARISE: A CATHOLIC FEMINIST'S INVITATION TO LIVE BOLDLY, LOVE YOUR FAITH, AND CHANGE THE WORLD at thecatholicfeministpodcast.com/book.