Strength Training for the Soul

EP 44: Gen Z and the Catholic Comeback: A Preview

We’ve all heard that young people are leaving the Church—but I’m seeing something different. In this episode, I share what I witnessed in Rome, what my 22-year-old son is noticing, and what the latest data says about Gen Z’s growing connection to the Catholic faith. This is the kickoff to a new series of conversations with young adults who are choosing to follow Christ in a noisy world—and why their stories matter.

EP 43: Saying Yes to God: Hadley's Race of Faith

Meet Hadley Mueller—23 years old and sparking a spiritual movement that's bringing dozens of young adults to Christ through running, community, and contagious joy. 
As founder of Run With Christ Chicago, Hadley has grown her faith-fueled run club from 8 people to 70+ in just six months. But this isn't about the numbers—it's about tearing down walls, building authentic friendships, and creating space for people to meet Jesus one mile and one heart at a time.
In this episode, we dive into Hadley's powerful return to faith, what it means to say yes to God's calling, and how Gen Z is redefining spiritual community. Whether you're a runner, a seeker, or just someone who needs hope—this conversation will inspire you to lace up and see where God might be calling you next.

EP 42: The Wisconsin Way--God's Path, Not Mine

On Day 7 of my 150-mile pilgrimage along the Wisconsin Way, I found myself on a narrow, rain-soaked stretch of the Ice Age Trail—with no alternate routes and limited cell service. That day became a powerful metaphor for another time in my life when the only way forward was God’s way. In this episode, I share what it was like to surrender control during my son Jack’s mental health journey and how I discovered that even the hardest climbs can lead to incredible beauty. If you’re facing fear, uncertainty, or feel stuck on your own path—I hope this story gives you strength.

EP 41: Trail Angels on The Wisconsin Way

What do a glass of water, homemade lasagna, and a hug from a 110-pound Bernese Mountain Dog have in common? They were all unexpectedly given to me by Trail Angels during my 150-mile Wisconsin Way pilgrimage. Discover how ordinary people (and a dog) with extraordinary hearts showed up at exactly the right moments, and learn to recognize the angels in your own life—while remembering that you might be someone else's unexpected blessing. You don't need wings, just a willing heart.

EP 40: Holy Smokes & Brats! A Day of Faith at the Ballpark

What do you get when you mix Mass, a tailgate, and a Brewers game? For Bob Simi, it turned into a 15-year apostolate that's expected to bring more than 1,300 people together under one giant tent on June 15, 2025.
In this episode, Bob shares how Ballpark Day of Faith started with a simple invitation to head to the ballpark with some brats and beer—and grew into something that's changing lives at American Family Field in Milwaukee. We dive into charisms, the difference between comfort and faithfulness, and what happens when you say yes to the Holy Spirit… even when you feel completely unqualified.
If you've been waiting for a sign to step into something new, this conversation might be exactly what you need.

EP 39: Will you Follow? Reflections from the Road

What do a Scottish hymn, a 150-mile walk, and the feast of St. Rita have in common? This episode. I’m diving into The Summons—a song that hit me straight in the heart at Mass—and sharing why it’s the perfect companion for the pilgrimage I’m about to begin. I’ll talk about feeling unworthy, walking with saints (and blisters), and how one line from my son Jack has become a mission I carry every day: to change the world, one heart at a time. Grab your walking shoes—or at least your coffee—and join me.
Trigger warning: suicide is discussed.

EP 38: Fasting, It's Not Just About Food

Fasting isn’t about punishment—it’s about love. In this episode, Peter Andrastek, from Evangelical Catholic breaks open the deeper meaning of fasting and how small, intentional sacrifices can transform your daily life and unite you more closely with Christ. Whether you’re giving up cream in your coffee, your scrolling habit or intentionally being the first to do the dishes, this conversation will help you fast with purpose, not pride.

EP 37: Walking with Jesus: My Wisconsin Way Prep

Join me as I share my preparation for my first-ever pilgrimage on the Wisconsin Way! From treadmills to trails, I'm getting ready to walk from the National Shrine of Our Lady, in Champion Wisconsin to Holy Hill Basilica over 10 days. Between physical setbacks, logistical curveballs, and moments of doubt, I'm learning to surrender my worries and let God carry the weight. This pilgrimage is more than a test run for my future Camino de Santiago dream - it's becoming a spiritual journey all its own. Whether you're carrying stress, doubt, or an overpacked schedule, this episode reminds us that we never walk alone. He is always with us.

EP 36: Discerning Life's Crossroads w/ Tracy Josetti

Are you trying to figure out what's next in your life? Well, so is my good friend Tracy Josetti. She's one of those women who seems to do it all so well, but today she opens up about the real work behind navigating uncertainty.
Together, we delve into Father Mike Schmitz’s “Four Helpful Rules for Discernment” and talk about the messiness, grace, and growth that come with standing at life’s crossroads. Whether you're facing a big decision or just trying to take the next right step, this conversation will remind you: you're not alone on the journey.

EP 35: In Gratitude. A Story About Emails, the Holy Spirit, and You

This week I’m talking about something highly spiritual: my email sign-off. After years of using the classic “Best” or “Best Regards,” I started wondering if I should close my emails with something a little more faithful. The problem? Everything I came up with sounded like I was trying too hard to be holy. Enter one of Fr. Dennis’ favorite reminders: when your mind starts to wander, bring yourself back to gratitude. And just like that, In Gratitude became my new go-to. That little shift made me stop and reflect on how grateful I am — for this podcast, for my guests, and especially for you. If you’ve ever wondered how email habits, faith, and the Holy Spirit can collide, this episode’s for you. Oh, and if you like the show? Share it with a friend. In Gratitude, of course.