Practicing Catholic is a radio show collaboration between the Archdiocese of St. Paul & Minneapolis and Relevant Radio 1330AM. www.practicingcatholicshow.com
Lent begins with a stark reminder: “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” But far from despair, those words invite us into renewal.Bishop Kevin Kenney helps us enter Lent with clarity, reflecting on mortality, repentance, and hope. Then Anne Ricci of Guiding Star Wakota shares how life-affirming, holistic care supports women and families right here in our community.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Lent can feel overwhelming—but it can also be transformative. Pat and Kenna Millea share how Crux: A Lenten Journey of Surrender helps grow closer to God through prayer, Scripture, fasting and discipline, even in busy lives. Then, researcher Sarah Kostick explores how wonder, humility and trust in God shape both scientific discovery and everyday life.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What does it look like to follow God in the middle of everyday life? Father Jim Livingston shares how Carmelite spirituality invites deep prayer without leaving the world behind, and Sister Amelia Hueller reflects on an unexpected journey from agnosticism to religious life — and the quiet ways God draws people toward purpose.Tune into Practicing Catholic live on Relevant Radio 1330AM Friday at 9pm, Saturday at 1pm, and Sunday at 2pm! Plus, catch up on previous segments wherever you get your podcasts and watch special video interviews on our YouTube channel.
Join Bishop Michael Izen as he reflects on walking in the footsteps of saints in Lebanon, discovering family roots, and encountering sacred sites. Then, multimedia artist Johnny Vrba shares how faith and creativity collide to spark a modern renaissance in the Church. Correction: Mattie Karr's artwork mentioned by Johnny is titled “Lord of the Abyss."Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Faith, history and art come together in this episode of Practicing Catholic as we explore Vatican Unveiled, the largest collection of papal artifacts ever displayed outside of Rome. Sean Pilcher shares an inside look at the Church's relics and the lives of saints, followed by Archbishop Bernard Hebda on the exhibit's spiritual and historical significance and its connection to the Archdiocese's 175th anniversary.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Go behind the scenes of Seeking Beauty with Mackenzie Hunter and Emil Liden, Minnesota natives who share unforgettable stories from the set and the creative process that brought the series to life. Then, explore the transformative power of forgiveness with Lacy Apfelbeck, as she reveals how letting go can free your heart and deepen your spiritual journey.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What does it look like to live faith boldly in today's world? Peter and Rachel Herbeck join us to share stories of transformation and insights on discipleship that make a real difference in daily life. Then Nicole Bettini introduces the Miriam Dinner, a special evening for young women discerning consecrated life.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
How can discomfort and self-denial draw us closer to God? Fr. Jim Livingston explains the true purpose of mortification and how healthy spiritual discipline leads to freedom and holiness. Then, Zach Jansen explores the Catholic themes beneath the movie, Wake Up Dead Man, uncovering questions of truth, conscience, guilt, mercy, and redemption.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What does it mean to honor God through every season of life? Sara Bertram reflects on faith in the face of unimaginable loss, and Paul Sadek shares the beauty of music lifted in praise.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Three months after a devastating school shooting, Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis held a Rite of Reparation to restore its sacred space and support a grieving community. Archbishop Bernard Hebda joins us to discuss the significance of the ritual, the role of faith in healing, and how resilience is helping the parish move forward. Then, Jamie Verbrugge, new president and CEO of Catholic Charities Twin Cities, shares how volunteers, parishes, and community support are making a real difference for families facing hardship this holiday season.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
In a culture obsessed with comfort and convenience, true joy can feel elusive. Bishop Kevin Kenney joins us to explore the difference between fleeting happiness and the deep, lasting joy found in God. Plus, go behind the scenes of Vatican Unveiled, the largest collection of papal artifacts outside of Rome, coming soon to Mall of America®. Fr. Richard Kunst, curator of the exhibit, shares exclusive insights into this once-in-a-lifetime experience.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Two extraordinary musicians share how their journeys of faith have shaped the music the world knows and loves. Tim O'Neill reflects on 25 years with the O'Neill Piano Brothers, and Steven C. Anderson opens up about the road that led him into the Catholic Church and deeper into his craft.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
How do bishops make decisions that affect parishes nationwide? Archbishop Hebda explains the work of the USCCB, while Father Koop unpacks the Church's new document, Mater Populi Fideli.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What happens when you give past the point of comfort? Marci Franzen reveals the surprising impact of donor generosity across the archdiocese. Then Linda and Don Olson share their moving path from heartbreak to hope through adoption. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Bishop Izen joins us to reflect on the freedom that comes from childlike trust in God and the role of gratitude in deepening our faith. He shares personal stories and practical wisdom for cultivating a thankful, open heart. Then, Paul Iovino and Randy Gray recap the first-ever SMIG Conference, offering insights on how Catholic parishes and schools can stay safe while remaining welcoming and grounded in faith.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
In this episode, Bishop Andrew Cozzens shares the remarkable story of Sister Annella Zervas, whose humility, devotion, and unwavering faith are guiding her cause for canonization. Then, Mary Verrill reflects on the joyful, courageous life of Sister Thea Bowman, a teacher, singer, and Franciscan Sister whose legacy continues to uplift communities today.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
In this episode, we explore stories of faith, resilience, and transformation. Emily Sullivan shares her family's journey through her mom's battle with breast cancer, reflecting on how hope, grief, and God's presence shaped their lives. Later, Joe Masek, founder of the Freedom Group, discusses practical steps for men seeking healing and freedom from porn addiction, highlighting how faith can restore individuals and families.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
As we look ahead to National Vocation Awareness Week, Archbishop Bernard Hebda joins Practicing Catholic to talk about the many ways God calls each of us to holiness. Then, co-hosts Leah Heselton and Fr. Tom Margeviciüs share their first conversation together on the heart of our worship — the Mass and the Eucharist — and how God continues to call and feed us through it.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What does it mean to be a missionary today—and how does Natural Family Planning (NFP) reflect God's vision for love and life?Bishop Kenney joins us to explore the Church's call to mission for every baptized Catholic—not just overseas, but right here at home.Then we're joined by Renee Oakes, FCP, DHS, Associate Director of Marriage Ministry for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. A seasoned Fertility Care Practitioner and founder of Integrated Fertility Care Center, Renee shares how NFP supports women's health, strengthens marriages, and honors the dignity of life.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What does it mean to tell stories through the lens of faith—and what does quiet resistance look like in the face of evil? Journalist Dave Hrbacek shares how nearly 30 years at The Catholic Spirit have shaped his mission to glorify God through storytelling, even amid tragedy. Then, digital content producer Zach Jansen unpacks Terrence Malick's A Hidden Life, exploring its moral depth, poetic style, and the cost of standing firm in faith.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
In a world shaped by screens, how do we share the Gospel and protect the hearts and minds of the next generation? This episode explores both the opportunities and challenges of faith in the digital age. Mackenzie Hunter, creator of @acaffeinatedcatholic, shares how she brings the Catholic message to life on social media in ways that are creative, relatable, and grounded in truth. Then Catholic therapist Dr. Kate Walsh-Soucheray joins us to unpack how social media is affecting mental health, identity, and spiritual development.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What does it look like to trust God when the stakes are high, such as when caring for patients or protecting kids? This episode shares real stories of spiritual surrender, sacred calling and the peace that comes from letting go of control.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What does holiness look like in today's world? Archbishop Bernard Hebda explores the lives of newly canonized saints Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati—two powerful witnesses for young Catholics. Then, Pam Baker of Abria Pregnancy Resources shares how her team is offering life-affirming support to women and families in needLike what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
In this episode, Monsignor Martin Schlag discusses the enduring relevance of Catholic social teaching in today's divided world, exploring themes of work, justice, and society in his upcoming lecture. Then, Paul Iovino from the Archdiocese's Safe Environment office shares how Catholic schools and parishes are working to keep families safe following the recent tragedy at Annunciation Catholic SchoolLike what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
How can Mary's faith inspire us to face fear and uncertainty with courage? Bishop Michael Izen shares powerful insights for families and disciples today. Plus, Pat Millea from the Martin Center for Integration offers hope and healing strategies for those coping with grief and trauma in our community.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
In this episode, Archbishop Bernard Hebda reflects on the Archdiocese's response to the tragic shooting at Annunciation Church and School in Minneapolis. Discover how faith, hope, and community provide comfort and leadership during times of grief and fear. The conversation addresses how to support children and families, improve safety, and find meaning in suffering through Catholic teaching. Plus, listen to Archbishop Hebda's heartfelt homily from the prayer service and reflections on healing through faith.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
How do we hear—and respond to—God's call in our lives? Archbishop Hebda reflects on saying “yes” to the Lord, even when fear and doubt stand in the way. Then, Dr. Kate Walsh Soucheray joins us with practical wisdom for weaving faith into family life as the back-to-school season begins.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Change is here—and it's a good one. Meet our new hosts, Leah Heselton and Fr. Tom Margevicius, as they share their hopes, hearts, and a few surprises in this special transition episode. Get to know their vision, their faith, and what they're bringing to the mic as they lead the conversation forward.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Before we move forward, we take a moment to look back. In this heartfelt segment, our former producers return to share favorite memories, lessons learned, and farewell messages as they pass the torch. It's a tribute to the voices behind the scenes who helped shape the journey.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
We celebrate the voice that helped shape the heart of the show. In this special farewell conversation, longtime host Patrick Conley reflects on his journey, shares favorite moments, and opens up about what's next. Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Who shapes a child's faith? While parents play a central role, many young hearts are formed by a much wider circle: grandparents, godparents, mentors and spiritual elders. In this episode, Bishop Izen joins us to explore the quiet but powerful influence of these often-overlooked guides. As modern life pulls families apart, how can we rekindle their role in passing on the faith?Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What happens when a school is built around Christ—not just academics, but the formation of souls? In this episode, Dr. Gerlach, Headmaster of Chesterton Academy, joins us to reflect on a school year rooted in faith, virtue, and classical learning. From daily life in the classroom to the mission that shapes it all, we explore how Chesterton Academy is forming hearts and minds for Christ.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Sometimes, faith shows up in the most unexpected ways. For Marcus Roesler, a visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe sparked a journey back to the Church—and eventually led him to his wife, Jenna. In this episode, Marcus shares how devotion, love, and a little divine timing shaped their relationship, their growing family, and the Catholic community they're now building together.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
In a world chasing influence and recognition, what does it mean to live for an audience of One? Auxiliary Bishop Kevin Kenney joins us to explore how faith calls us into the unseen—where purpose is found not in applause, but in surrender.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
While many enjoy the warmth of summer, others face heat, hunger, and hardship. Mike Rios-Keating of Catholic Charities Twin Cities joins us to share how their summer programs meet urgent needs, where help is needed most, and how local parishes and advocacy efforts bring hope to our neighbors.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Change is constant, but it often leaves us feeling unsteady. How can we find peace when life feels uncertain? As Catholics, we're invited to root ourselves in Christ, our steady anchor in every storm. Lacy Apfelbeck joins the show to explore how faith can ground us through seasons of change and lead us to lasting peace.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis just marked 175 years, a milestone rich with faith, service, and resilience. Archbishop Bernard Hebda joins us to reflect on the Church's legacy, the evolution of the Catholic community, and what lies ahead for the next generation.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Love often asks more of us than we expect, especially in family life. Katie Steiner and Allison Johnson join us to talk about the highs and lows of sacrificial love, how it's shaped their motherhood, and what they've learned along the way.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Last week, we heard the unforgettable story of Father Zachary Ochsenbauer's ordination and the incredible woman who received his late mother's heart. In Part 2, reporter Dave Hrbacek returns to reflect on the lasting impact of that moment, what it meant to the family, the readers, and to him personally.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Fatherhood is one of the most powerful and impactful roles a man can have, shaping not only his own family but also reflecting deeper spiritual truths. Paul Wagner joins us to discuss what it means to be a father, not just in the everyday sense, but how we can mirror the love, guidance, and strength of our Heavenly Father in our own lives.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Why does The Sound of Music still captivate hearts decades later? Join us and movie expert Zach Jansen as we explore the film's enduring magic, its rich Catholic themes, and the powerful story of faith and vocation behind Maria's journeyLike what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
In Part 1 of this powerful two-part episode, Catholic Spirit reporter Dave Hrbacek shares the unforgettable story of Father Zachary Ochsenbauer. After losing his mother in a tragic accident at age six, Zachary never imagined that, two decades later, the woman who received her heart would be sitting in the pews at his ordination.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Loneliness is one of the most quietly painful struggles of our time. In this episode, Bishop Izen joins us to talk about why so many people, young and old, feel isolated even while constantly connected. Together, we explore how the Church can be a place of healing, real community, and deep human connection.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati will be canonized together this September and their stories continue to inspire people around the world. Fr. Joseph Bambenek joins us to explore who they were, why they matter, and how their lives point us toward holiness in today's world.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Feeling stuck or like you're not where you "should" be? You're not alone. Dr. Kate Walsh Soucheray joins us for a thoughtful conversation on flourishing from a Catholic perspective, how we grow through virtue, connection, and even suffering, and why it's never too late to begin.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What happens when creativity becomes a spiritual practice? In this episode, aspiring author Jacqueline Lucca shares how her writing journey is deeply intertwined with her faith. From facing the blank page to seeing God as the Divine Author, Jacqueline explores how storytelling can be both an act of imagination and a sacred space for encountering Christ.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Lacy Apfelbeck joins us to share how faith, nature, and community can bring healing to today's youth. Fresh from serving at Extreme Faith Camp, Lacy reflects on the power of unplugging, building Christ-centered connection, and supporting young hearts through her mental health ministry, Edge of the Red Sea.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Jesus called His disciples friends rather than servants, offering a powerful glimpse into how friendship can be a path to holiness. In this episode, Dr. Sarah Kostick returns to explore the beauty of virtuous friendship—how it draws us closer to God, strengthens our souls, and helps us grow in faith and virtue.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
What does quiet, faithful service look like over 25 years?Anne Ricci has spent decades serving women and families through her work at Guiding Star Wakota, first as a volunteer and now as Director of Client Services. In this episode, she shares how her Catholic faith, motherhood, and commitment to the pro-life mission have shaped her work and touched countless liveLike what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
Deacon Kris Ringwall joins us to talk about his journey with Laudato Si', how creation speaks to the soul, and how small steps of care can make a lasting impact.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
The University of Mary has launched the world's first Catholic Montessori Institute, combining Montessori education with Catholic faith. In this episode, JoAnn Schulzetenberg, the Institute's director, shares the inspiration behind this innovative initiative and its vision for transforming education worldwide.Like what you're hearing? Leave us a review, subscribe, and follow us on social media @practicingcatholicshow! Facebook Instagram YouTube
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