Leedom to Life

Mo Irvine has the unique opportunity to see people for who they really are. Moreover, help people see themselves for who they are. People, who we would ordinarily be stereotyped as a bad apple for the things they have done in their past. Mo serves the diocese in the prison ministry office and shares her journey from where it began to where she is today.

Fasting... don't get scared now! (a little christmas pop culture humor for ya for this time of year). Dr. Chris Burgwald gives a fascinating account on how fasting has impacted his life spiritually, which in turn is transforming him physically and mentally. Caffeine is coursing through our veins on this episode, come join the conversation.

Alison Conemac is the epitome of God's servant. Day in and day she lives her life for Christ. Oh.... and she loves wine... BONUS! Come hear Alison's story on how to live intently and devoutly for our lord. There's so much, that she may be back for more!

Tony Menke is back on Leedom to Life this season. How much do you tithe? How much should you tithe? Tony gives a great first hand account on giving and receiving as we prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ this advent season.

Joining me this week on Leedom to Life is Dr. Angela Turnow, a physical therapist who helps moms with pelvic floor and core issues feel strong and supported for active motherhood. https://achievemovement.com/ (https://achievemovement.com/)

This week we dive back into the archives when Emily talked with Deacon James Keating about how a daily happy hour transformed his marriage. They also discuss building intimacy, praying together and the gift of consistency.

It's easy to go through the motions of daily living without ever really pausing to cultivate and create the life we are capable of living. In this episode, Emily sits down with the most intentional person she knows, Howie Schmidt, to talk about being intentional with our time, our money and our relationships. 

Chris Burgwald returns to the show to talk about giving as a gift what we have received as a gift. There's something stirring in the hearts of people and this episode is here to fan the flame

Emily talks with Dylan Kessler, business leader, to talk about a person centered approach to leadership.

Emily sits down with Teresa Henrickson, clinical director of Catholic Family Services, to explore the root of shame. 

In this episode, Emily Leedom sits down with Bishop DeGrood of the Diocese of Sioux Falls to talk about finding freedom to be authentically who God has created us to be. Bishop shares some of his own life experiences and how he learned to grow in confidence and his ability to share his true self with God and others.

Emily Leedom sits down with her friend Beth Pole to talk about the power of a well ordered home. Whether it's organizing the stuff in your house or the stuff on your calendar, properly ordering our lives leads to greater freedom and joy.

We are launching Season 3 with an awesome conversation about the power of wonder! You can hear more from Angela on the Awake to Wonder Podcast!

Season two finale is a wrap! As we close out this season, we invited Emily's dear friend, Katie, to come on the show to talk friendship and intentionality.

This is an episode you don't want to miss. It's the story of one couples journey toward healing amidst the challenges of mental illness. You can contact Rachel and Scott at rachel.mark406@gmail.com.

Jessica is the founder and creative mind behind A Thriving Catholic! She's a go getter and after her own challenges with feeling like she wasn't truly thriving, she dove into what was missing. This episode is all about the practical and spiritual needs of the human person in order to be fully alive. You can learn more about Jessica and her work at athrivingcatholic.com!

This weeks episode is a little different. As we enter into Holy Week, Emily shares a short reflection.

Chris Motz, Director of the South Dakota Catholic Conference, returns for this episode of Leedom to Life to discuss dynamic citizenship and policy as it pertains to true freedom. Chris and Emily address a tough topic like the equality act through the lens of faith and reason.

The tables are turning in this episode as Emily is interviewed by Father Scott Traynor regarding what it means to be in pursuit of lifelong Catholic missionary discipleship rooted in God's love.

Father Kowles joins this episode to talk about finding freedom from the things that keep us bound. Based on the book, Unbound by Neal Lozano. Songs mentioned: The Father's House by Cory Asbury Dear Wormwood by the Oh Hellos

Shane VanDiest joins this episode to talk about the power of liturgy and ritual. Shane and Emily explore the human desire for ritual and actions than manifest the heart.

Father Scott Traynor returns as a guest for this episode of Leedom to LIfe all about entering into the season of Lent with a heart of gratitude! Central to a fruitful lenten journey is centering ourselves first in the abundant love of God.

We're launching into new territory on this weeks episode of Leedom to Life! Pelvic floor health is an integral part of flourishing for both individuals and couples. This week, Emily is chatting with pelvic floor therapist, Staci Weitfeld, about how pregnancy and delivery can impact pelvic floor health and couples overall wellness.

This episode is a favorite from the archives about the importance of play. Father Tyler Mattson is a Catholic priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Enjoy!

Nic Davidson is back sharing his heart for mission work! You can find out more about Nic at freelygiveninc.org!

Katelynn Beldin is a counselor who is passionate about accompanying others through the hard. This conversation is dedicated to intentional living, soul searching and pursuing fullness.

Have you noticed a creeping trend among mothers that seems to lift up alcohol as a coping mechanism for parenting? We have, too. Joy Wattenbarger is a writer and the founder of @integrated_mama. She is passionate about integrated and healthy parenting that honors the dignity of children. Joy and Emily examine what's beneath the growing popularity of "mommy wine time" and propose healthier means of coping with the difficulties of parenting.

Dr. Chris Burgwald is an incredible teacher, husband, father and dear friend of Emily's! In this episode, Chris shares his wisdom about being intentional with our lives. They chat all about being a life long learner and the difference between amusement and leisure.

Meet Emily's brother-in-law! Pat is the father of 6 and in this episode, he opens his heart about the joys and challenges of fatherhood, continuing to prioritize marriage and the importance of community.

This episode is all about parenting, marriage and raising saints! Robyn Bruggeman is a mom of seven with a heart for bringing the Church home. You can follow along with Robyn @divine9livinglit

Rachel Herbeck has a preachers heart. In this episode, we cover what it means to have an intentional rhythm of life and what it looks like to create a rule of life. You can follow the work of ID (Intentional Disciples) @intentionaldisciples or follow Rachel directly @rherbeck.

Matt Leedom, a favorite guest on Leedom to Life, returns this episode to discuss the power of family prayer and the anticipation of advent! Instagram Mentioned: @divine9livinlgit

Catherine Huss is an amazing woman with a heart for trying new things, embracing life and pursuing the fullness of life. In this episode, Emily and Catherine discuss taking chances, women's fashion and mental health! You can follow along with Catherine's latest adventure with Siena & Co at www.siena-co.com.

Meet Father Joe Vogel. A priest that is not afraid to say it like is. Father Joe shares his story and offers his insights on marriage, relationships and the journey of life.

Isaiah Lamb is an old soul with a heart for helping the human person discover meaning, purpose and healing. He is currently in the pursuit of his doctorate for clinical mental health and this episode explores the power of presence, the purpose of emotion and the gift of living beneath the surface.

Jay Stringer is a speaker, author and certified mental health counselor. In this episode, Emily asks Jay about the origins of unwanted sexual behavior and the pathway to healing. You can find out more about Jay and his amazing work at jay-stringer.com. Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B7RCM9B/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B07B7RCM9B&linkCode=as2&tag=jaystringer09-20&linkId=c8a13c0294baa2f83f96422fab7932a4 (Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals Our Way to Healing)

Nic Davidson is a missionary at heart. His love for marriage, family and theology of the body is contagious. This episode explores sexuality, healing in marriage and the heart of man. You can check out Nic's podcast: Nic_the_idiot Website: www.freelygiveninc.org

Jennifer Lehr is a certified Marriage and Family Therapist. In this episode, Emily asks Jennifer all about the chemistry of love, tips to help couples feel connected and the dynamics of enhancing marriage. Jennifer is the founder of WeConcile.com! Disclaimer: The Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls does not endorse WeConcile. WeConcile is not a faithbased relationship enhancement program.

Sometimes life changes course. This episode is one mans journey of following Gods plan even when it takes a left turn here or there.

Father Jeff Norfolk has a reputation for encouraging couples to embrace the gift of life! He is passionate about sharing with the world that children are a gift and this episode explores the richness that comes from embracing an open heart to life. Did questions come up for you listening to this episode? You can contact Father Jeff at frjeffnorfolk@sfcatholic.org.

Lauren Wolf is a young professional and single mother with a heart for sharing her journey to choose joy amidst all of lifes circumstances. This is a story of embracing lifes surprises.

We often have a perception of what holiness "should" look like. But holiness is often surrounded by a lot of mess and brokenness. In this episode, Father Andy Thuringer unpacks the perception of holiness and how immense virture can find its way through the messiest of circumstances.

Connor Flanagan considers himself a "fulltime dreamer" and in this episode, he and Emily explore the beauty of pursuing dreams. They also chat about finding balance in pursuing our goals with family life and the difference between selfish dreams and God given dreams. You can follow along with Connor on facebook or instagram @connorflanaganmusic and be sure to checkout his podcast "Fulltime Dreamer" launching soon!

This episode with Matt Leedom, husband of Emily, wraps up Season 1 of Leedom to Life! Matt and Emily discuss sharing a common mission as a couple and supporting each others passions and pursuits. They hash out their favorite episodes from Season 1 and explore the ways they are working on growth in what it means to be authentically human and fully alive. We will be back with Season 2 starting September 1!

Buckle up because this converation with Meghan Krueger is hilarious, honest and fast! Emily and Meghan are talking all about fertility awareness based methods and family planning. We look at it through the perspective of health, well-being and relationship bonding. You can follow Meghan on Instagram @megkrueg or reach out to her for fertility care at (605)323-7320 or meghan1@me.com.

Father Vince Fernandez comes on this episode to chat about the art of healthy conversation. We explore the primacy of pursuing truth and loving people along the way.

Coach Kramer Soderberg has a powerful story of learning to trust, embracing trial and letting God use us however He desires. We chat about how trial can affect our marriages and finding the balance between presence and hustle. Coach Soderberg is an author with coach's heart for encouraging and challenging us all to reach our fullest potential. You can follow along with Kramer on instagram @acatholiccoach

It's no secret that marriage requires investment and ongoing intentionality. And it's one thing to do that as a couple but it's another thing to invite other couples into your marriage to call you on. In this episode, Susanna shares her experience of journeying with other couples. We also chat about healthy conflict in marriage and how to keep your marriage a priority amidst the changes in life's seasons.  You can follow along with Susanna's writing at https://fiatandalily.blogspot.com/?fbclid=IwAR3EFrfzu7K9it3ODGgJEw3u0RpV2LDtRzgHTZLaR9wi_uUzkyxf015VP_Y (Fiat and Lily)! https://fiatandalily.blogspot.com/?fbclid=IwAR3EFrfzu7K9it3ODGgJEw3u0RpV2LDtRzgHTZLaR9wi_uUzkyxf015VP_Y (https://fiatandalily.blogspot.com/?fbclid=IwAR3EFrfzu7K9it3ODGgJEw3u0RpV2LDtRzgHTZLaR9wi_uUzkyxf015VP_Y)

Meet Emily's dad! Gregg Hoffmann comes on the podcast in this episode to share his journey of learning from the men before him and growing in his own fatherhood.

Zach Krueger is an educator and philosopher. In this episode we talk about building a foundation of education and the importance of learning logic in order to think well. You can follow up with Zach at zwkrueger@gmail.com.

Lisa Bannwarth is a school psychologist, educator and mom. In this episode we talk all about parenting, setting children up for success and the work of finding personal balance in order to flourish in our ability to raise children well. Have further questions for Lisa? You can email her at lisawolf1425@gmail.com.