Saints for Slackers

Welcome to Episode 20, the finale of Season 4 of Saints for Slackers. This is a very special episode: It's not only our Season 4 Finale, but we hosted a LIVE event featuring special guests—like members from our Little With Great Love team, guest podcasters, and sponsors. This video/podcast episode is the replay of that live event.Watch it on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/IRY4iyCaHQoGUESTS:Lisa Martinez--LWGL Founder, Podcast Co-hostAlyssa Sanchez – LWGL Content Manager, Contributor, Designer; Ep 1 – St. Gertrude the GreatTammi McCarthy – LWGL Contributor, Spiritual Mom & Speaker; Ep 13 – St. AugustineRhen Hoehn from the Holy Donors Podcast, which shares inspiring stories of radical generosity that have changed the world, as presented by Petrus Development; Sponsor of Ep 12Christina Brown, Catholic Life Coach & Speaker, Co-host of the Thanks Mom podcast, and sponsor of Episodes 3-9Special appearance by Jeff Sanchez, Podcast Co-hostREAD more on today's podcast on our website:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/season-4-finale/Listen for the top 5 saints {so far} of Season 4.Remember: Season 3 of Saints for Slackers is the Advent Edition, and Advent starts Sunday, December 3, 2023 LINKS for some of our Advent Resources:An Advent Calendar FREE Download Printable adapted to the liturgical calendar of Advent 2023 to follow Season 3 of the podcast (since it won't be chronological order this Advent) A beautiful art download of an Advent Calendar Craft with Sacred Art to do with your familyA free FREE Nativity Color Page coloring page downloadWe also have another podcast for Advent, called Accompanying the Holy Family which is a series of 6 podcasts that pairs with a free eBook in our shop and an Advent playlistDownload our free 2023 Advent Planning Guide, packed with great Advent resources, recommendations and tipsStay tuned: We're going to post an Advent Roundup blog on Sunday, December 3rd, which will have all our Advent resources in 1 place on the blog at littlewithgreatlove.comFollow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: Little With Great Love Email List (we respect your privacy!)YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

A Little Witness to God's Merciful Love St. Maria Goretti lived a remarkable, though short, life of holiness, praying at the point of death for the salvation of her attacker. Caitlin Bootsma shows us how this little saint is a shining example of the Little Way, choosing love in all circumstances and God as her only joy.Our last guest podcaster of Season 4 is Caitlin Bootsma. Caitlin is an author and parish librarian with a career working in Catholic communications. Her first book "Detective Thomas and the Biggest Question" was released in September and there are more in the works! Caitlin has a big heart for the universal Church, her children, the Catholic imagination, and building local community.CONNECT + FOLLOW Caitlin Bootsma at:Instagram: @theinkyswanGet her book "Detective Thomas and the Biggest Question" for middle-grade readers through Our Sunday Visitor + on Amazon here.READ more on today's podcast on our website:littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-maria-goretti/Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: Little With Great Love Email List (we respect your privacy!)YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The Little Way of Abandonment Servant of God Walter Ciszek lived a life of total abandonment to God's will, moment by moment. Katerina Deem ties the work of this great spiritual leader in with St. Therese's focus on abandoning to God in the small, routine, mundane tasks of everyday life.Our guest podcaster for today is Katerina Deem, the founder and owner of Little Way Design Co.: a small design studio she runs with her husband and five children from their home located outside of Pittsburgh, PA. Her mission is to contribute to the New Evangelization efforts of the Church by providing clean, powerful, and awe-inspiring design that are rooted in tradition and inspired by the living faith. Katerina has a Masters of Pastoral Studies from the University of St. Thomas, Houston. She has been serving in parish ministry for over 20 years in different roles, more notably as a catechist, youth minister, and Little Flowers Girls' Club Leader.CONNECT + FOLLOW Katerina Deem & the Little Way Design Co at:littlewaydesign.coInstagram: @littlewaydesigncoFacebook: fb.com/littlewaydesigncoREAD more on today's podcast on our website:littlewithgreatlove.com/servant-of-god-walter-ciszekFollow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: Little With Great Love Email List (we respect your privacy!)YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Spiritual Father of a GenerationSt. Philip Neri came from humble, unremarkable beginnings. And yet his preaching inspired countless others to follow God. Contributor Sefanit Stefanos tells us about his littleness, and how God used that littleness to inspire great thingsOur podcaster today is Sefanit Stefanos, a seeker of Truth, wife, mom of three, favorite sister and friend. Originally from Eritrea, born in Rome, and raised in Dallas, Texas, her upbringing in an Eritrean-American home shaped her worldview that she is part of a greater community. Her joy is being with family and friends, and she loves making people feel at home in her presence. Her calling in life is to introduce others to the generous love of God that she has experienced.  Sefanit experienced the best of both worlds as a graduate of Texas A&M and Franciscan University and has worked in full-time ministry for more than ten years. Living in Dallas with her husband and kids, you'll find her seeking joy and gratitude amidst changing diapers and cleaning food off the walls. CONNECT + FOLLOW Sefanit at:Read more of Sefanit's blogs here.READ more on today's podcast on our website:littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-philip-neri/Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: Little With Great Love Email List (we respect your privacy!)YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

A Model of Holy Silence St. Bruno of Cologne was a hermit who longed for the silence and stillness of the hermitage but kept getting drawn into the political life of the Church. Katie Goebel tells us more about this remarkable saint who exemplifies the Little Way by sacrifice.Our guest podcaster today is: Katie Goebel, mother of 3 & wife of 10 years to Jeremy, is Catholic because of the Eucharist. As a former full-time youth minister, she is passionate about encouraging youth & young adults to deeply know the love of Jesus & radiantly live that love in their daily lives.Now, as an online marketing strategist, she is on a mission to make marketing more human. She helps mission-driven small businesses & entrepreneurs grow their audience online through crystal clear messaging, fruitful relationship-building & sustainable video marketing.CONNECT + FOLLOW Katie Goebel at:Facebook: facebook.com/katie.goebel518Instagram: @kotiegoebelonlineTikTok: tiktok.com/@katiegoebelonlineLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/k-goebelVISIT: podcastpage.katiegoebel.com/toppodcasts for the Top 30 Catholic podcasts to help small business owners & ministries build relationships, get visible & grow their audienceREAD more on today's podcast on our website:littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-brunoFollow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: Little With Great Love Email List (we respect your privacy!)YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.——

A Leper to the Lepers St. Damien of Molokai was a public witness of a life lived in communal sacrifice with others, for the sake of Christ. Greg Hendry tells us about how Damien poured out his life serving the lepers of Molokai.Greg Hendry is a devoted father of five children who lives in Flower Mound, Texas, with his wife, MaryBeth. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame, served as a ranger and captain in the U.S. Army, and earned a master's from Cornell University. During his work in the airline and tech industries over twenty years, he founded fromHeaven Books. With books spanning from children's book honoring his late wife, Allison, to a “power” series on priest, religious, and eventually the laity, his publications have been featured on EWTN radio and in various Catholic publications. He serves as a Serra club member, ambassador for Catholic radio, and a featured speaker at Catholic teen and vocational events.CONNECT + FOLLOW Greg Hendry at:fromheavenbooks.comfacebook.com/profile.php?id=100064238251556Amazon Books: Power Priests, and COMING SOON, Power SistersREAD more on today's podcast on our website:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-damien-of-molokai/GET SLACKER SWAG here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/product-category/saints-for-slackers/Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: Little With Great Love Email List (we respect your privacy!)YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The First Pope St. Peter was all in, excited to follow Our Lord even to death…until he wasn't. The failures of this great saint can help reveal our own weaknesses. But Anne-Marie Klobe reminds us that through our failures, through our littleness, God can work miracles of transformation.Anne-Marie Klobe studied Theology at Franciscan University, then later studied Interior Design and The Way of Beauty. Her mission is to evangelize through art, design, books, and retreats. The Foundress of a Ministry for Catholic Single Women called Life Journey, she also inspires and encourages women on their own life journey through Catholic coaching.CONNECT + FOLLOW Anne-Marie Klobe at:www.Anne-MarieKlobe.comFacebook: facebook.com/groups/confidentgodlywomenInstagram: @CatholiclifedesignerGet her book, A Letter to Judas, here.READ more on today's podcast on our website:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-peter/Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: Little With Great Love Email List (we respect your privacy!)YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

A Big Sinner Who Let Love Win Many of us know St. Augustine as a theologically profound giant, yet perhaps his most influential work is a work of deep humility. Contributor Tammi McCarthy takes us deeper into how this great saint can show us the Little Way through a spirit of sacrifice.Speaker & Little With Great Love Contributor, Tammi McCarthy, kicks off the first saint under this new theme, sacrifice.   Tammi has a heart for people and a need to communicate her love through blogging about parenting, homeschooling, marriage, and her faith journey as a Catholic. As a former teacher and now homeschooling mom of five, Tammi sprinkles humor and sarcasm into many of her Instagram posts and personal blogs. Both Franciscan University alumni, she and her husband of over 22 years live in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Through her authentically Catholic blog she strives to “fill the banquet table of the Lord” through writing about His whispers of love and faith.CONNECT + FOLLOW Tammi at:whispersofloveandfaith.comfacebook.com/whispersofloveandfaith@whispersofloveandfaithREAD more on today's podcast on our website:littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-augustine-of-hippo/Get the St. Therese of Lisieux quotes sticker sheet here:littlewithgreatlove.com/product/st-therese-of-lisieux-quotes-sticker-sheetFollow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The Greek Princess Who Won a Double CrownSt. Philomena was such an obscure saint that no one had heard her name until her tomb was found in 1802. But in the years that followed, this little saint has become a beloved friend to many great saints. Caitlyn tells us more about Philomena's life and her unwavering trust in God's holy will.Caitlyn Pszonka is first and foremost a beloved daughter of God and uses her gifts as a co-creator for love of Him and His Body, the Church. With degrees in Creative Writing and Theology, she loves to get at deeper truths through telling stories in various forms, including novels, poems, plays, and songs. She serves as an Artist and our Little With Great Love Editor. shares her visual art, in addition to reflections on diving ever deeper in love with God, at Heart to Sacred Heart.CONNECT + FOLLOW Caitlyn at:@hearttosacredheartREAD more on today's podcast on our website:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-philomena/All Soul's Day blog: ”8 Ways to Honor the Dead on All Souls Day”:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/ways-to-honor-the-dead-all-souls-day/Today's podcast is sponsored by: The Holy Donors podcast, which explores the stories of prominent Catholic philanthropists to ask whether they were faithful, humble, radically generous, and worthy of emulation. Check it out at holydonors.com Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The Fourth PopeSt. Clement of Rome comes to us all the way from the 1st century, and is one of three chief Apostolic Fathers. Though not much about his life is known, Christie Walker shares what we do know of the fourth Pope who showed great faithfulness and trust in the Lord, despite facing great persecution. Today's guest podcaster is Christie Walker. Christie is a joy-filled Catholic wife, mom, podcaster, speaker, and The Catholic Sobriety Coach. As a trained life coach through the Professional Christian Coaching Institute and with over 26 years of sobriety, Christie specializes in coaching Catholic women who are ready to unravel the mystery surrounding their drinking habits to discover a sense of peace and clarity they never imagined possible. She also coaches women in recovery who want to learn how to invite the Holy Spirit in to clear up the “mental mess” that can stick around long after the last drink.CONNECT + FOLLOW Christie at:thecathlicsobrietycoach.com@thecatholicsobrietycoach facebook.com/TheCatholicSobrietyCoach buzzsprout.com/2087354Get the “Drink Less or Not at All” Catholic guide to freedom here.READ more on today's podcast on our website:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/st-clement-of-rome/Today's podcast is sponsored by: Catholic Creations, a small business sticker shop that creates unique waterproof vinyl stickers to proudly display your faith wherever you go. VISIT: Etsy.com/shop/catholiccreationshop and use code SLACKERS20 for 20% off all stickersFollow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Model of Unceasing PrayerSt. Monica prayed many years for the conversion of her son, Augustine. Michelle Hillaert talks about how this continual trust in God's plan and continual surrender to His will can help to motivate and inspire us in every struggle.Michelle Hillaert has been married for over 23 years to her husband, Trent. Together they have 6 children, 3 in college and three still at home, along with three dogs, a cat and 21 chickens. As the Executive director of the GIVEN Institute, a not-for-profit founded by religious sisters and dedicated to activating the gifts of women for the church and the world, Michelle is passionate about helping women live out their God-given vocations. GIVEN fulfills this mission by inspiring and equipping the next generation of female leaders through leadership training, faith formation, and dedicated mentoring.CONNECT + FOLLOW Michelle at:giveninstitute.comInstagram: @michellehillaert @giveninstituteFacebook: facebook.com/giveninstitutefacebook.com/michellehillaertLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michellehillaert/?_l=en_USlinkedin.com/company/giveninstitute/Upcoming GIVEN Gathering in Arlington, November 11, 2023. Check out website for details.READ more on today's podcast on our website:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-monica/Today's podcast is sponsored by: Someday Saints, a blog and shop where you'll find encouragement to seek God right where you are.  Shop at www.somedaysaints.com, and use promo code SaintsforSlackers for a special offer! Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Mother and Miracle Worker St. Rita is known for being one of the patron saints for impossible causes and difficult marriages. Julia Miller relates a story of powerful story of healing in her own marriage that she attributes to this powerful intercessor.Today's guest podcaster Julia Miller. Julia is a lifelong Catholic and professional wedding florist who, after retiring in 2017, embarked on another floral career. She creates and ships life-size rosaries, made of real, whole, fresh roses, all over the lower 48 states, for funerals, sacraments, gifts, and other holy occasions. Julia and her husband John will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary later this year, and live in Western Washington. Together they have five adult children and seven young grandchildren.CONNECT + FOLLOW Julia at:freshrosary.comInstagram: @freshrosaryfacebook.com/freshrosaryREAD more on today's podcast on our website:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-rita-of-cascia/Today's podcast is sponsored by: Christina Brown, Certified Catholic Life Coach, speaker, and podcast co-host of the Thanks Mom podcast. Follow on all social media platforms + visit her website: www.christinambrown.com Schedule a FREE consultation call + use code “SLACKER15” for 15% off any booked coaching or speaking engagements!Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Holiness Through Suffering Jane Frances de Chantel experienced much suffering throughout her life, from the grief of losing her husband to challenges to both her mental and physical health. Micole Amalu highlights for us how this holy woman's struggles show us the hand of God in our weakness.Today's guest podcaster Micole Amalu. Micole is the founder and director for The Face of Mercy, an organization dedicated to mental health education and advocacy within the Catholic Church. This mission brings together her own struggles with mental illness, an educational background in psychology, and her passion for helping the Church live out Christ's mission better! One of her favorite parts of this work is sharing stories of saints who lived with mental illness, because all of us are capable of holiness.CONNECT + FOLLOW Micole at:www.thefaceofmercy.orgInstagram: @thefaceofmercy @mercyandmiserypodcastfacebook.com/thefaceofmercy/podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mercyandmiseryThe Face of Mercy has recently launched a podcast, Mercy and Misery! Micole and Catholic psychologist Mairead chat about the intersection of faith and mental health. READ more on today's podcast on our website: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-jane-frances-de-chantal/Today's podcast is sponsored by: Christina Brown, Certified Catholic Life Coach, speaker, and podcast co-host of the Thanks Mom podcast. Follow on all social media platforms + visit her website: www.christinambrown.com Schedule a FREE consultation call + use code “SLACKER15” for 15% off any booked coaching or speaking engagements!Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Glorifying God in Loving Service Many times, we misunderstand the virtue of humility. As she tells us about St. John Bosco, who rooted his catechesis on first loving those he taught, Krista Hanrahan frames humility as total dependence on God in all things.Today's guest podcaster Krista Hanrahan. Krista is a Catholic Life and Mindset Coach for women at Little Way Coaching. She coaches Catholic women on various topics, including faith, personal health and wellness, marriage, motherhood, and home management. She currently resides in Steubenville, Ohio with her husband, Mark, and their 6 children.CONNECT + FOLLOW Krista at:www.littlewaycoaching.comInstagram: @littlewaycoachingFacebook.comKrista offers private 1-1 coaching OR small group coaching on creating a well ordered life through prayer, personal wellness, marriage, motherhood, and home management. To determine if 1-1 or group coaching is better for you, sign up for a free Discovery call: https://www.littlewaycoaching.com/free-discovery-callREAD more on today's podcast on our website:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-john-bosco/Today's podcast is sponsored by: Christina Brown, Certified Catholic Life Coach, speaker, and podcast co-host of the Thanks Mom podcast. Follow on all social media platforms + visit her website: www.christinambrown.com Schedule a FREE consultation call + use code “SLACKER15” for 15% off any booked coaching or speaking engagements!Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Humble Hymn Writer St. Ephraim the Syrian used his gifts to the best of his ability, writing hymns to defend the faith against heresies of the day, ministering to the poor, and speaking with simple humility. Today's guest podcaster, Sissel Anderson, teaches us how this saint exemplifies the humility of the Little Way.Sissel Anderson is a 25-year-old convert in North Texas. Just a year and a half after coming home to the Catholic Church, she dove headfirst into Catholic media by interning at the local Catholic Radio station during college, operated by the Guadalupe Radio Network. Six years later, she is now the North Texas Assistant at the network and produces and hosts local programs, including one for young people (or the young at heart!) for which she has a desire to reach out to more.A collector of hobbies and volunteer positions, she is never without something to do, whether it be helping lead her parish's young adult group to mastering the perfect Old Fashion. While she has ideas and dreams for the future, she enjoys taking each day at a time to see where God is calling her at that moment.CONNECT + FOLLOW Sissel at:GRNOnline.comInstagram: @sisselmarieflorianFacebook: facebook.com/grnonlineREAD more on today's podcast on our website:https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-ephraim-syrian/Today's podcast is sponsored by: Christina Brown, Certified Catholic Life Coach, speaker, and podcast co-host of the Thanks Mom podcast. Follow on all social media platforms + visit her website: www.christinambrown.com Schedule a FREE consultation call + use code “SLACKER15” for 15% off any booked coaching or speaking engagements!Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Patron of the RejectedSt. Andre Bessette lived a simple life, physically frail but spiritually lively and devoted. He became known as the “Miracle Man of Montreal” by the many who were healed after encounters with him. Today's podcast introduces our next theme of the Little Way, humility, so for the next two weeks, our saints will reveal more to us about what true humility looks like. The podcaster here to kick off our new theme is Little With Great Love Contributor, Bridget Holtz.  Bridget is a deep-thinking compassionate caregiver who serves as a pediatric nurse, cherished dog mom, world traveler, and lover of color and kindness. She has worked with the underserved, both here and abroad, throughout her life – standing with impoverished in whatever ways they need. She currently lives in Austin, TX with her dogs Nigel & Callie. For more podcasts and blogs from Bridget, visit littlewithgreatlove.com CONNECT + FOLLOW Bridget at:Instagram: @bridgetshopeREAD more on today's podcast on our website: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/st-andre-bessette/Today's podcast is sponsored by: Christina Brown, Certified Catholic Life Coach, speaker, and podcast co-host of the Thanks Mom podcast. Follow on all social media platforms + visit her website: www.christinambrown.com Schedule a FREE consultation call + use code “SLACKER15” for 15% off any booked coaching or speaking engagements!Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

A Model For Suffering and Love St. Teresa de los Andes, or Teresa of the Andes, is a saint who knew many sufferings during the course of her short life, offering everything for love of her Divine Spouse. Contributor Citlalin “Tati” Ossio dives deeper into the life of this remarkable saint who spent herself in love.Tati Ossio is an avid fantasy writer and reader, whose work is heavily inspired by her Catholic faith, her Mexican heritage, and Nintendo's Legend of Zelda. Her fantasy short stories have been featured in various anthologies, and have even been award-winning. She is a joyful single living in Texas with her family and enjoys creating art, playing video games, and watching anime and Korean dramas. When she's not writing or spending time with her loved ones, she's on Instagram, or dreaming about raising a panda army.CONNECT + FOLLOW Tati at:Instagram: @citlalinossioREAD more on today's podcast on our website: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/st-teresa-de-los-andes/Today's podcast is sponsored by: Christina Brown, Certified Catholic Life Coach, speaker, and podcast co-host of the Thanks Mom podcast. Follow on all social media platforms + visit her website: www.christinambrown.com Schedule a FREE consultation call + use code “SLACKER15” for 15% off any booked coaching or speaking engagements!Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The Little Saint Who Loved MuchSt. Thérèse of Lisieux loved God fully, joyfully, and like a child. Learn more about the little saint who inspired this season, her philosophy of suffering and how that has impacted our special guest today, Taryn DeLong. Taryn shares how Thérèse famously embodies this first theme of love in our Little Way Edition.Today's guest podcaster is Taryn DeLongTaryn DeLong is a Catholic wife and mother in North Carolina who serves as co-president and editor-in-chief of Catholic Women in Business. Her writing has appeared in publications such as FemCatholic, Natural Womanhood, CatholicMom.com, Radiant Magazine, and Live Today Well Co. She enjoys curling up with a cup of Earl Grey and a good novel, playing the piano, and taking walks in the sunshine with her family.CONNECT + FOLLOW Taryn at:everydayroses.blogcatholicwomeninbusiness.com/membershipInstagram: @tarynmdelongFacebook: facebook.com/everydayrosesLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/taryn-delong-72346a20Sign-up for Catholic Women in Business e-mail list hereREAD more on today's podcast on our website: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-therese-of-lisieux/Today's podcast is sponsored by: Christina Brown, Certified Catholic Life Coach, speaker, and podcast co-host of the Thanks Mom podcast. Follow on all social media platforms + visit her website: www.christinambrown.com Schedule a FREE consultation call + use code “SLACKER15” for 15% off any booked coaching or speaking engagements!Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The Princess Who Became a Saint St. Elizabeth of Hungary reminds us that the most enduring acts of love aren't always grand gestures. St. Elizabeth continues to develop our first Little Way theme of love through her path to sainthood.Today's guest podcaster is Rosemary Terrell. Rosemary is the owner of Mama's Little Loves. She is from Central Texas, where, along with her husband and kids, they embark on their beautifully chaotic journey to raise and become saints. Her shop is filled with little items made with love that serve as little reminders of faith in life's ordinary moments.FOLLOW Mama's Little Loves at: Facebook.comInstagram @mamaslittlelovestxEtsy.com/shop/mamaslittlelovesShop10% off on Etsy for all listeners with code Slackers10 mamaslittlelovesshop.etsy.com/?coupon=SLACKERS10Today's podcast is sponsored by: LegendFictionVisit LegendFiction.com and be part of their growing community of 400+ legends.READ more on today's podcast on our website: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-elizabeth-of-hungary/Follow Little With Great Love on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The Only Female Saint to Be Named ‘The Great'St. Gertrude placed the Lord into all that she did, just like St. Therese of Lisieux. The mundane tasks of life turned sweet when she invited Him into them.Today's podcaster is Little With Great Love Contributor, Social Media Manager & Designer, Alyssa Sanchez. Alyssa is young professional with a master's degree in communications. She lives in sunny Florida, enjoys watching movies and binging tv shows, and hopes to one day produce films of her own in which to act. Creatively she enjoys writing in any medium, fashion, and participating in cosplay. She loves to travel by plane, train, car and especially cruises, and hopes to see the world. Caring, kind and loving, she tends to see the good in all people. Alyssa's calling is to make people smile through her creativity, sharing God's message of love through how she lives. Her motto is a quote by Padre Pio, “Pray, hope and don't worry. Worry is useless. God is merciful and will hear your prayer.”READ more on today's podcast on our website: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-gertrude-the-great/Today's podcast is sponsored by: 12th & BlossomVisit 12thandblossom.com and unlock a world of inspiration. Use the code SLACKER at checkout and enjoy a 10% discount on your purchase.Follow us on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Join podcast cohosts and siblings Lisa Martinez and Jeff Sanchez as they kick off Season 4 of Saints for Slackers, The Little Way Edition! You can WATCH the video of this podcast here: https://youtu.be/G1yXGFST-qILearn:What is the Little Way?More about St. Thérèse of Lisieux The jubilee year of St. Thérèse, and how the Church is celebrating it The 5 themes we will cover this seasonAbout Season 4's guest podcastersGet a sneak peek of some of our 19 NEW saints and MORE!Our 5 themes will break down The Little Way Spirituality St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and each of our new saints will exemplify these themes. We'll introduce the themes bi-monthly on Sundays, with new episodes dropping every Sunday &Thursday from Sept 21 - Nov 30. READ more on today's podcast here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/episode-0-saints-for-slackers-season-4-kickoff/Follow us on Facebook & InstagramSUBSCRIBE: YouTube ChannelApple PodcastSpotify PodcastGoogle PodcastPodtailSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Sharing the Revelations from Along the JourneyListen to members of the Little With Great Love Team and special guests from this season share stories from the season, as well as their epiphanies or great revelations from this Advent and Christmas Season.This is a replay from our LIVE Epiphany stories event on January 10, 2023. Watch the video of this special finale episode here: https://youtu.be/AZn4xUmQSCM  And subscribe to the Little With Great Love YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@littlewithgreatlove Check out the blog of this podcast episode here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/epiphany-stories-replay/Get your free downloads + new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann. 

Celebrating the Revelation that Jesus is the Son of GodEpiphany, also known as Three Kings' Day, is the feast day that celebrates the revelation that Jesus was the Son of God, illuminating the mysteries of the Advent & Christmas seasons.Today's podcaster is Founder & Cohost, Lisa Martinez. Lisa is an entrepreneur and creative with a penchant for storytelling across the digital landscape. She studied writing, mental health, and theology at Franciscan University. With more than twenty-five years of experience across various industries, Lisa and her husband, Mike, run a small business, and serve on the board of the nonprofit she founded to address the challenges of modern ministry.  After ten years of blogging and many more spent in the pursuit of healing, Lisa established this outreach, Little With Great Love. She leads a team using media to share stories to bring restoration and utilizes their gifts of art and design to bring truth, goodness and beauty through their online shop. After ten plus years of infertility, Lisa is currently writing her first book, a devotional that draws from the Scriptures and her story and others bearing the cross of infertility. Read more about today's featured podcaster and feast here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/the-epiphany/Register for our LIVE Epiphanies Stories event on January 10, 2023 at 7:00 PM Central/8:00 PM Eastern on Zoom here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZckdeigrzkiGdxJno3YtXLa9ZbI0Qi4ToWlGet your free downloads + new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann. 

The First U.S. Bishop Raised to SainthoodSt. John Neumann was the first U.S. bishop to be named a saint, who worked tirelessly in service to God and the Church. Listen as Jason Hayward, a professor of Nuclear Engineering, tells us more about this remarkable saint.Today's guest podcaster is Jason Hayward. Jason became a Christ follower as a teenager in the early 90s and is a little different today compared to back then. He married his high school sweetheart and is a father of two young women. He's been an engineering professor for the last 15 years, and prior to that he spent 8 years as a Naval officer. He lives in East Tennessee, where he has been affiliated with a couple of jail ministries for the past 10 years. He's also a lover of biographies and the Bible. Read more about today's featured podcaster and saints here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-john-neumann/Register for our LIVE Epiphanies Stories event on January 10, 2023 at 7:00 PM Central/8:00 PM Eastern on Zoom here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZckdeigrzkiGdxJno3YtXLa9ZbI0Qi4ToWlGet your free downloads + new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann. 

The Saint Filled with the Signs of the Holy Spirit Working through HerSt. Genevieve, a consecrated virgin born in 422, lived a life of prayer and complete devotion to Our Lord, sharing His love with others. Alyssa Sanchez tells us about the life of this little saint who had the courage to say “yes” like our Blessed Mother.Today's podcaster is Little With Great Love Contributor, Social Media Manager & Designer, Alyssa Sanchez. Alyssa is young professional with a master's degree in communications. She lives in sunny Florida, enjoys watching movies and binging tv shows, and hopes to one day produce films of her own in which to act. Creatively she enjoys writing in any medium, fashion and participating in cosplay. She loves to travel by plane, train, car, and especially cruises, and hopes to see the world. Caring, kind, and loving, she tends to see the good in all people. Alyssa's calling is to make people smile through her creativity, sharing God's message of love through how she lives. Her motto is a quote by Padre Pio, “Pray, hope and don't worry. Worry is useless. God is merciful and will hear your prayer.” Read more about today's featured podcaster and saints here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-genevieve/Register for our LIVE Epiphanies Stories event on January 10, 2023 at 7:00 PM Central/8:00 PM Eastern on Zoom here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZckdeigrzkiGdxJno3YtXLa9ZbI0Qi4ToWlGet your Christmas free downloads + new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Celebrating God's Perfect InstrumentWe reflect on this Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. While Our Lady is known by many titles, as we kick off the new year honoring her as Mother of God, Curtis Stephan reflects on Mary as God's instrument. By following her example, we have a place in this symphony, too. Today's guest podcaster is Curtis Stephan. In less than 15 years, Curtis has risen from a promising young songwriter to one of the most productive forces in liturgical music today. A lifelong musician, he received his bachelor's in music and his master's in jazz studies from the University of North Texas. He is a parish music director, composer, concert and recording artist, and workshop clinician. Since committing his life to serving the Gospel through music, Curtis has published five solo collections. His latest collection, Love Remains: Songs of Consolation, explores grief and finding Christ's peace after his father's death. His Mass of Renewal is one of the most popular Mass settings in US parishes. Curtis recently collaborated with fellow composers on Our Common Home, a collection inspired by Pope Francis' Laudato Si' encyclical. Curtis travels the world presenting liturgical training and inspirational music, witnessing to all ages through workshops, retreats, missions, conferences, youth rallies and liturgies. Whether he is teaching the foundational elements of planning music for liturgy, the nuts and bolts of arranging and conducting or leading youth through the sacraments, he has the same goal: helping people connect with God and making disciples for Christ. Curtis currently lives in Frisco, Texas, with his wife and four kids. He is director of music and liturgy for St. Ann Catholic Church in Coppell, a mega-parish with more than 30,000 attendees. You can follow Curtis on Facebook here.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saints here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/solemnity-of-mary-mother-of-god/Register for our LIVE Epiphanies Stories event on January 10, 2023 at 7:00 PM Central/8:00 PM Eastern on Zoom here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZckdeigrzkiGdxJno3YtXLa9ZbI0Qi4ToWlGet your Christmas free downloads + new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The Littlest SaintsMark Houck shares about the Feast of the Holy Innocents, the child victims of Herod's wrath. But in the midst of this somber feast celebrated on December 28th, we find hope for ourselves and for the little ones we've lost.Today's guest podcaster is Mark Houck. Mark is the Founder and President of The King's Men, Inc. He is an author and internationally known motivational speaker who developed in 2004 a highly successful ministry to help others become better leaders, protectors, and providers. As a former All-American collegiate athlete and high school coach, Mark has drawn on his personal pursuit of excellence in sports to encourage and mentor thousands across North America and Europe. Through his seasoned life experience as a human resource manager, youth counselor, and high school teacher, Mark brings practical insight and wisdom to all his presentations. Mark is a husband and father of 7 children. He has a B.A. in Human Resource Management from Catholic University and holds a Master's degree in Education from Holy Family University.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saints here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/the-holy-innocents/Get your Christmas free downloads + new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The Beloved DiscipleCaitlyn shares how the beloved disciple reclined against Jesus's Heart at the Last Supper, at the very hour when Christ instituted the Eucharist. Today's podcaster is Little With Great Love Editor & Artist, Caitlyn Pszonka. Caitlyn is first and foremost a beloved daughter of God and uses her gifts as a co-creator for love of Him and His Body, the Church. With degrees in Creative Writing and Theology, she loves to get at deeper truths through telling stories in various forms, including novels, poems, plays, and songs. She shares her visual art, in addition to reflections on diving ever deeper in love with God, at Heart to Sacred Heart. Read more about today's featured podcaster and saints here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-john-the-evangelist/Get your Christmas free downloads + new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by: Catholic in Recovery serves individuals and families seeking freedom from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. Connect with other Catholics to find hope, healing, and a renewal of God's Mercy today by visiting CatholicinRecovery.com.Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Merry Christmas, Slackers!In this special Christmas episode, Tammi McCarthy shares about how God chose for Jesus to be born into the mess of a manager and reminds us that Jesus continues to come to us in our own mess. Today's podcaster is Speaker & Little With Great Love Contributor, Tammi McCarthy. She has spent the past few years blogging about parenting, homeschooling, marriage, and family. As a 45-year-old homeschooling mom of five who has recently ventured back into the business world, she sprinkles humor and sarcasm into many of her Instagram posts and blogs. Tammi lives with her Irish husband of 20 years outside Philadelphia. Her blog is authentically Catholic as she strives to “fill the banquet table of the Lord.” Check it out at ChasingTimeandDrinkingWine.com Read more about today's featured podcaster and saints here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/the-nativity-of-the-lord/Get your Christmas free downloads + new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Euphrosyne Corner Solutions. Slackers, gift yourself with fresh ideas for your programs and ministries this holiday season! With 20+ years experience, Euphrosyne Corner Catholic Education Solutions combines quality educational research with authentic faith practice to transform your programming. Learn more at catholiceducationsolutions.com.Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The Unlikeliest of SaintsAdam and Eve? Saints? Weren't they the greatest sinners? Yep. Their feast day is December 24th. In this episode, Ann Koshute tells us how our first parents, most famous for their sinful disobedience, help to reveal God's merciful love.Today's guest podcaster is Ann M. Koshute, M.T.S. Ann holds a Master of Theological Studies from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family at the Catholic University of America. While studying at the JP II, Ann and her classmates founded Theophany Catholic Theatre Company to perform the plays and poetry of Karol Wojtyła /John Paul II, including at World Youth Day in Cologne, Germany. She has worked in ministry and education over the years and has been a columnist for The Eastern Catholic Life, the official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic since 2015. Ann is co-founder of Springs in the Desert, a Catholic infertility ministry dedicated to offering spiritual and emotional support and accompaniment to those couples bearing the cross of infertility and loss. To connect with Springs in the Desert, follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Ann and her husband Keith enjoy family, friends, and football rivalries in Central Pennsylvania. Read more about today's featured podcaster and saints here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/adam-eve/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Legend Fiction the creative community for Catholic & Orthodox fiction authors. It's a home online to give and get feedback, share your works in progress, and double your writing output! Start your saga by visiting legendfiction.com Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Energetic Pursuer of ChristSt. Peter Canisius was an energetic saint who dedicated his gifts to the service of the Church. Sophia Lebano tells us about this 19 year old university graduate from the 1500s.Sophia Lebano is a senior business management major at Franciscan University of Steubenville. She is the co-host at Hear and Now Podcast and the founder of Sophia Lebano Creative, LLC. Her company, Sophia Lebano Creative, is a website design and online business management company for Catholic and Christian entrepreneurs. She has lived with hearing loss since the age of 8, and received bilateral cochlear implants in 2016 & 2018. Since then, she's started advocating for hearing loss awareness, as it's a passion of hers to fight for what matters. Her faith has been super important to her, especially living with a diagnosis like hearing loss. After being raised as a cradle Catholic, she fell deeply in love with the faith in high school, and rediscovered that fire again in college. In her spare time, you can find her working on her business, studying the latest social media trends, dancing, or organizing her outfits for the week. Come connect with her on Instagram @sophialebano.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-peter-canisius/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Euphrosyne Corner Solutions. Slackers, gift yourself with fresh ideas for your programs and ministries this holiday season! With 20+ years experience, Euphrosyne Corner Catholic Education Solutions combines quality educational research with authentic faith practice to transform your programming. Learn more at catholiceducationsolutions.com.Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Mother to Refugees, Face of ChristMother Frances Xavier Cabrini was a missionary who served Italian immigrants in New York. While her example may seem distant to us, Jane Vaughan talks about her experience living in Europe while Ukrainian refugees arrived in busloads.Jane is a lover of foreign places, accents, comfort foods, long travel, and a simple life. She enjoys following animals on social media and listening to spy or fantasy novels on long walks and long runs. She currently lives in Allen, Texas with her husband.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-francis-xavier-cabrini/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Legend Fiction the creative community for Catholic & Orthodox fiction authors. It's a home online to give and get feedback, share your works in progress, and double your writing output! Start your saga by visiting legendfiction.com Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Faithful Friend in the DarknessSt. John of the Cross is known as a Doctor of the Church for his witness and work in teaching us how to pray. Naomi Broussard tells us how to embrace emptiness of all but Christ as St. John prayed, “Nothing, nothing, nothing.”Naomi is a true Louisiana Cajun single consecrated woman living in the world but not of it. Naturally exuberant, full of life, and joyful, she has a deep love for Jesus as her spouse, striving to be a saint and encouraging others to do the same. A singer-songwriter, she can play any instrument by ear. But as a music minister serving the church for twenty-six years, she chooses guitar and piano as her main instruments to usher God's people in praising him in song. She also serves as the head of the St. Ignatius Catholic school choir. Calling herself a "Jill of all trades" since she's a woman, Naomi has been blessed with many gifts, such as singing, playing musical instruments, songwriting, poem writing, drawing, carpentry work, welding, and others. She uses all her gifts to give God glory and is passionate about proclaiming God's kingdom from the rooftops. Her Facebook page features many live-stream videos to help to lift the hearts of others in song and encouragement as we all move forward, keeping our eyes on the prize, which is Heaven. Her ministry is called The Visitation Pilgrimage since, like Mary, it brings Jesus to others so they can experience the exposing of God's love as Elizabeth and St. John the Baptist did. Through her ministry, Naomi provides music for weddings, funerals, conferences, retreats, and talks upon request. She will do what the Spirit says to do and holds all of God's people in her heart as she serves her King with great fervor.  Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-john-of-the-cross/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Catholic in Recovery serves individuals and families seeking freedom from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. Connect with other Catholics to find hope, healing, and a renewal of God's Mercy today by visiting CatholicinRecovery.com.Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Immersed in JoySt. Lucy, a virgin and martyr of the late 200s, gave her entire self for love of Our Lord. Kelli Davis points to this young Bride of Christ as a model of Christian joy.Kelli's life changed when she met Jesus for the first time on an 8th grade retreat. Since that time, she has been on a faith adventure which seems to keep her and those around her on their toes. The Lord rescued Kelli from a disordered life of anxiety. Out of love, He has been reordering and restoring her life for more than a decade through a journey of healing, transformation, and empowerment. Now, she is doing her part to help others discover the joy in little things while overcoming life's challenges with Jesus by our side. Kelli is a wife who likes to keep her husband laughing. She has developed a deep appreciation for using the Word of God as our daily medicine, for learning how not to take ourselves too seriously, and for listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit for help in everyday circumstances. Through 25+ years of experience in her faith adventure, she communicates simple and practical ways for individuals to find hope, joy, and God's presence in everyday life.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-lucy/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag, and Christmas cards here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Legend Fiction the creative community for Catholic & Orthodox fiction authors. It's a home online to give and get feedback, share your works in progress, and double your writing output! Start your saga by visiting legendfiction.com Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Our Lady's Messenger on TepeyacOn this Gaudete Sunday, we learn about St. Juan Diego whose feast day we just celebrated on December 9th. Juan Diego initially felt unworthy of his call to tell his bishop of the appearance of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Tepeyac Hill. Citlalin reminds us that our calling is never a mistake. Citlalin Ossio is an avid fantasy writer and reader, whose work is heavily inspired by her Catholic faith, her Mexican heritage, and Nintendo's Legend of Zelda. Her fantasy short stories have been featured in various anthologies, and one, She Has No Voice, won second place in the Prose category for Rehumanize International's 2021 Create | Encounter. She is a joyful single living in Texas with her family and enjoys creating art, playing video games, and watching anime and Korean dramas. When she's not writing or spending time with her loved ones, she's on Instagram, or dreaming about raising a panda army.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-juan-diego/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag, and Christmas cards here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Saint of the Month subscription boxes. Each month offers a journey with one saint, containing weekly gifts that inspire you to do radical things like the saints. It's like Christmas every month! So go subscribe to saintofthemonth.com. Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

A Mother Made To Love UsToday we celebrate the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Heather Lebano shares some of the beautiful theology behind this feast, as well as a personal experience in which she encountered Our Lady not as distant and aloof, but as a tenderly loving mother.Heather Lebano is a Catholic Convert who lives near the City of Brotherly Love with her husband, Jon, of 25 years, their four children, and two feisty dogs in their home rooted in faith and love. She spends her days running her home, supporting and caring for her husband while guiding her high school girls with their home education and searching for truth, beauty, and goodness. She enjoys writing, creating, and sharing about her deep faith, the gift of raising her family, the vocation of marriage, and where she sees God moving in her life while lingering over a fresh cup of coffee. Heather writes at HouseofLoveandLaughter.com and on Instagram @houseofloveandlaughterblog, where she weaves words, offers a soft place to land, reflects on finding hope and joy, loving others, laughing often, and seeing beauty while encouraging others to grow closer to God in this sometimes difficult journey called life.  More recently, she shares glimpses into finding joy and beauty in the surrender of embracing God's will as she cares for Jon, who is living with aggressive brain cancer and healing from a stroke. Heather also shares tender thoughts on grief, loss, and reconciliation and podcasts with her oldest daughter, Sophia, on the Hear and Now Podcast, where they have genuine conversations and share stories about where they and their guests hear God's voice in their lives.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/immaculate-conception/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag, and Christmas cards here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Red Bird Ministries. Red Bird Ministries is a Catholic grief support ministry that serves ordinary families who have been given an extraordinary cross to carry called child loss. Use the promo code "PURCHASEWITHPURPOSE" to get 15% off of your order inside their benefit boutique at www.redbird.loveSpecial thanks to musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Myra's Best-Known BishopThough he's best known for traveling the whole world every Christmas Eve, St. Nicholas was actually a bishop beloved for his charity and fidelity to Christ. Christy Brown tells us why this saint is still much loved to this present day.Christina Brown is a certified Catholic Life Coach and Catholic speaker. She also co-hosts the Thanks Mom Podcast with her eldest daughter Grace. She has been a guest on multiple podcasts including the Instagram Live show, Many Hail Marys at a Time, Treasures in Heaven, Made for Greatness, Empowered Modern Woman, as well as Say Yes to Holiness. She is a Life Coaching consultant for Made for Greatness and runs her own Life Coaching business. She has been married to Paul for 23 years, and they have raised 6 incredible children ranging from 22-4. She is passionate about living out her vocation and in doing so, is invigorated to help lead her family and others closer to Christ. She has gifts in speaking and communication and enjoys inspiring and connecting with others in building up the Kingdom of God. She would love to connect with you more about how she can support you in living out, with intention, the fullness of life that God desires for you. Christina can be reached at www.christinambrown.com, @christina__m__brown on Instagram, as well as at https://www.facebook.com/christinambrowncoachandspeakerRead more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-nicholas/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag, and Christmas cards here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Saint of the Month subscription boxes. Their new Eye of the Needle card game features Saints you collect to complete your missions to win the game. Who said slackers can't have fun? Go buy it at  www.saintofthemonth.com/shop. Use promo code SLACKERS to get 15% off your card game. Link to Eye of the Needle card game: https://www.saintofthemonth.com/shop/product/4720296116 Special thanks to musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

The theme for this Second Sunday of Advent is faith. Sefanit discusses this faith as evidenced in the life and example of St. John the Baptist, the Forerunner of the Word.Sefanit Stefanos is a seeker of Truth, wife, mom of three, favorite sister, and friend. Originally from Eritrea, born in Rome, and raised in Dallas, Texas, her upbringing in an Eritrean-American home shaped her worldview that she is part of a greater community. Her joy is being with family and friends, and she loves making people feel at home in her presence. Her calling in life is to introduce others to the generous love of God that she has experienced.  Sefanit experienced the best of both worlds as a graduate of Texas A&M and Franciscan University and has worked in full-time ministry for more than ten years. Living in Dallas with her husband and kids, you'll find her seeking joy and gratitude amidst changing diapers and cleaning food off the walls.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-john-the-baptist/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag, and Christmas cards here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Red Bird Ministries. Red Bird Ministries is a Catholic grief support ministry that serves ordinary families who have been given an extraordinary cross to carry called child loss. Use the promo code "PURCHASEWITHPURPOSE" to get 15% off of your order inside their benefit boutique at www.redbird.loveSpecial thanks to slacker co-host Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

St. Francis Xavier was one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus, or as they're commonly known today, the Jesuits. Susan Husband tells us more about this tenacious evangelist burning with the love of God.Susan Husband is a farm wife and mother of seven adventurous sons. When she's not cooking for the army or acting as resident medic, she enjoys reading, gardening, and running. She and her husband, Steve, enjoy sharing encouraging stories and positive tips on raising sons via their Testosterone Tuesday series on Instagram. Susan and her family reside in rural Kansas. Follow Susan on Instagram at: @solesearchingmammaRead more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-francis-xavier/Get your Advent + Christmas free downloads, new Saints for Slackers swag, and Christmas cards here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/This podcast is sponsored by Saint of the Month subscription boxes. Each month offers a journey with one saint, containing weekly gifts that inspire you to do radical things like the saints. It's like Christmas every month! So go subscribe to saintofthemonth.com. Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

St. Andrew, the First Called, was the first of Jesus's disciples. Saint of the Month's Patrick Pulis talks about St. Andrew's strength, and the courage it takes to answer God's call.Patrick Pulis is a lifelong Catholic who grew up in a rural area of Colorado where he was captivated by the stars of the night. As he grew in his faith he decided, after college, to join a religious lay movement to possibly become a priest. As he went to formation, he grew more in his faith than at any other time in his life. He was inspired by these men and women to be the best he can to help change the world for the better. After three years of many fruitful experiences, he decided to return home and follow God's new path preparing someday to get married. Inspired by the saints and their lives, he decided to start a business to help people become little saints which became the Saint of the Month subscription box. Now married, his wife helps with Saint of the Month, and they have a daughter. He loves spending time with family and playing with his little girl.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-andrew/www.saintofthemonth.com IG: saint_of_the_monthFacebook: saintsubscriptionboxSaint Andrew One Time box: saintofthemonth.com/shop/product/4771390375This podcast is sponsored by Red Bird Ministries. Red Bird Ministries is a Catholic grief support ministry that serves ordinary families who have been given an extraordinary cross to carry called child loss. Use the promo code "PURCHASEWITHPURPOSE" to get 15% off of your order inside their benefit boutique at www.redbird.loveSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

St. Rose Philippine Duchesne served the poor during the French Revolution before becoming a missionary to the United States. Bridget tells us about this strong-willed saint who left the comfort of wealth to live in a small room under a stairwell.Today's podcaster is Little With Great Love contributor, Bridget Holtz. Bridget is a deep-thinking compassionate caregiver who serves as a pediatric nurse, cherished dog mom, world traveler, and lover of color and kindness. She has worked with the underserved, both here and abroad, throughout her life – standing with the impoverished in whatever ways they need. She currently lives in Austin, TX, with her dogs, Nigel & Callie. For more podcasts and blogs from Bridget, visit littlewithgreatlove.com.Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-rose-philippine-duchesne/This podcast is sponsored by Zelie Crafts. Visit this Catholic shop at zeliecraftsshop.com Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Join podcast cohosts and siblings Lisa Martinez and Jeff Sanchez as they kick off Season 3 of Saints for Slackers, Advent Edition! The Advent season begins the Church's new liturgical year, and is comprised of the four Sundays and weekdays leading up to Christmas. We'll introduce the weekly THEMES of Advent on Sundays, which may also relate to a saint or the saints whose feast days we'll be celebrating that week. Then we'll follow the liturgical calendar, celebrating the saints and feasts throughout the season all the way through to Epiphany!Read more about today's podcast and cohosts here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/intro-to-adventSpecial thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Catch the highlights on Season 2 with the podcast co-hosts and the brainchild of Saints for Slackers!**Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/season-2-finale-of-saints-for-slackers/Please support our sponsor, Pio Prints. Check out their original Feast Day plate! It makes a perfect gift for baptisms, baby showers, and confirmations! Join in on the fun and add feast day celebrations to your family traditions. Get your Feast Day plate now at pioprints.com.PRE-ORDER YOUR ADVENT PACK HERE: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/product/advent-ebook-holy-family/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; Contributor Tammi McCarthy, and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Pure Love, Pure JoyBlessed Imelda Lambertini is the patron saint of First Communicants for her example of joyful reception of the Blessed Sacrament. She reminds us that no matter our age, we are called to be witnesses to God's love in joyful surrender.Our editor, Caitlyn Pszonka, is back today to share our final saint of season 2 before this Thursday's finale – which you don't want to miss!Caitlyn loves to get at deeper truths through telling stories in various forms, including novels, poems, plays, and songs. Visit hearttosacredheart.com to see her striking visual art plus reflections on diving ever deeper in love with God. **Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/blessed-imelda-lambertini/Please support our sponsor, Pio Prints. Check out their original Feast Day plate! It makes a perfect gift for baptisms, baby showers, and confirmations! Join in on the fun and add feast day celebrations to your family traditions. Get your Feast Day plate now at pioprints.com.PRE-ORDER YOUR ADVENT PACK HERE: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/product/advent-ebook-holy-family/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Young Martyr, Inspiring FaithSt. Peter Yu Tae Chol, a Korean martyr, was 13 years old when he was martyred for his faith during a time of severe persecution for Korean Catholics. This youth's radical faith is an example of pure, selfless love of God.We're bringing our last but definitely not least guest podcaster of season 2 to you today. After Asian Hate crimes rose 76% in 2020 (according to the FBI), we felt called to feature at least 1 Asian saint by an Asian guest podcaster this season. You can imagine how thrilled we were when we got two! Today is the second of two religious sisters of Korean decent.Sr. Clara Choi is a Korean-American sister. After graduating from college, she joined the Sisters of the Blessed Korean Martyrs (SBKM) in 2010, receiving her formation in Mexico. In 2020, she made her perpetual vows in Korea, and is part of the Quasi-Province of Americas that serves in Mexico, Peru, and USA.**Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/st-peter-yu-tae-chol/Please support our sponsor, Pio Prints. Check out their original Feast Day plate! It makes a perfect gift for baptisms, baby showers, and confirmations! Join in on the fun and add feast day celebrations to your family traditions. Get your Feast Day plate now at pioprints.com.PRE-ORDER YOUR ADVENT PACK HERE: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/product/advent-ebook-holy-family/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

A Saint for the OrdinarySt. Zita was born to a poor family who taught her the value of service to God and neighbor. Despite hardships, abuse, and misunderstandings, she remained steadfast in faith and prayer, committing all her work to God.We're back today with Little With Great Love contributor, Bridget Holtz.Bridget is our resident caregiver serving as a pediatric nurse, cherished dog mom, world traveler, and lover of color and kindness. She has worked with the underserved, both here and abroad, throughout her life – standing with the impoverished in whatever ways they need. Check out her beautiful blogs and other podcasts from Seasons 1 + 2 at littlewithgreatlove.com.**Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/st-zita/Please support our sponsor, Pio Prints. Check out their original Feast Day plate! It makes a perfect gift for baptisms, baby showers, and confirmations! Join in on the fun and add feast day celebrations to your family traditions. Get your Feast Day plate now at pioprints.com.PRE-ORDER YOUR ADVENT PACK HERE: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/product/advent-ebook-holy-family/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

A Korean Witness to God's LoveSt. Andrew Kim was born in Korea, and left for seminary training before later returning to Korea to serve as a missionary, where he served generously and ultimately gave his life for the faith.Today's special guest podcaster checks off two firsts for our podcast – our first nun and Korean immigrant!Born in Seoul, Korea, Sister Juana Teresa was baptized as Helen Chung. Even as a little child she knew that God had a unique and special plan for her life. Helen's family immigrated to Paraguay, where she learned to speak Spanish, and later to Canada. After she received the sacrament of Confirmation and had a deep, personal encounter with God through the baptism in the Holy Spirit, Helen desired to respond to God's great love discerning that she was called to be a religious Sister.In October of 1992, she joined the Disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ and received the name Sr. Juana Teresa. Becoming a Sister was a response of love, one that the Lord called her to, to learn to love. She is still learning that each day by following in the footsteps of Jesus amongst her community in Texas. Read more about Sr. Juana, with a link to her community, on our blog!**Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/st-andrew-kim-dae-gun/Red Bird Ministries is a non-profit, pro-life, and pro-family, Catholic grief support ministry serving individuals and couples who have experienced the loss of a child from pregnancy through adulthood. They help ordinary families who have been given an extraordinary cross to carry, by systematically guiding them through the complexity and trauma that happens after suffering child loss. Find their grief resources, including their Restoring Love 33-day consecration to the Holy Family for couples of loss, at redbird.love.Check out our 3 collections of Saints for Slackers swag (hoodies, tees, mugs, stickers, totes, etc) at: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/PRE-ORDER ADVENT PACK HERE: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/product/advent-ebook-holy-family/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Blind, Hunchback, Outcast, Miracle WorkerBlessed Margaret of Costello was born blind and lame and at an early age was rejected by her parents. Despite these early difficulties, Margaret prayed and performed miracles for all who sought her aid.We've got another exceptional new guest contributor for you today.Bryan Mercier is a Catholic speaker, retreat leader, YouTuber, author, and the president of Catholic Truth. He has been aired on national TV and radio including Ave Maria Radio, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, Relevant Radio, and EWTN.A professional apologist, Bryan has over 20 years of field experience teaching Catholics to discover, deepen, and defend their faith! He holds a master's degree in Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary and has written two books: Counterfeit Spirituality and Why Do You Believe In GOD? Check out his popular Catholic Truth YouTube channel. Website: https://thecatholictruth.org/YouTube: Catholic TruthPodcast: Catholic Truth Podcast**Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/saint-margaret-of-costello/This podcast is sponsored by: Red Bird Ministries, a non-profit, pro-life, and pro-family, Catholic grief support ministry serving individuals and couples who have experienced the loss of a child from pregnancy through adulthood. Find their grief resources, including Founder Kelly Breaux's autobiography, Hiding In the Upper Room, online at redbird.love.Check out our 3 collections of Saints for Slackers swag (hoodies, tees, mugs, stickers, totes, etc) at: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Bold and Persistent in ChristSt. Catherine of Siena is known for her outspokenness and courage in the face of adversity. Recognized today as a Doctor of the Church, she shows us how holy perseverance can transform the world.We've got the spiritual mom, contributor, and speaker of our team back for her round 2 of season 2 today.Tammi McCarthy is a wife of 20 years, mom of 5, homeschooler, and blogger that lives outside of Philly. You'll find a blending of humor, sarcasm, faith and family on her Instagram and blog, Chasing Time and Drinking Wine. She's hilarious and faith-filled, so go follow her if you haven't already!  **Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/st-catherine-of-siena/This podcast is sponsored by: Red Bird Ministries, a non-profit, pro-life, and pro-family, Catholic grief support ministry serving individuals and couples who have experienced the loss of a child from pregnancy through adulthood. Find their grief resources, including Founder Kelly Breaux's autobiography, Hiding In the Upper Room, online at redbird.love.Check out our 3 collections of Saints for Slackers swag (hoodies, tees, mugs, stickers, totes, etc) at: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Dragonslaying Wonder WomanSt. Margaret of Antioch is an inspiration for how to fight and win spiritual battles. She faced strong opposition and intense persecution, but she remained steadfast in her faith, continually saying “yes” to all that God asked of her.Today, Little With Great Love contributor Danielle Knight is back! Danielle is a creative storyteller with a passion for sharing God's relentless love with others. In case you missed her earlier episodes –you'll love Episode #2 from this season, and Episodes 9 and 33 from Season 1. Plus, her original collection of beautiful stories at littlewithgreatlove.com.**Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/st-margaret-of-antioch/This podcast is sponsored by: Red Bird Ministries, a non-profit, pro-life, and pro-family, Catholic grief support ministry serving individuals and couples who have experienced the loss of a child from pregnancy through adulthood. Find their grief resources, including Founder Kelly Breaux's autobiography, Hiding In the Upper Room, online at redbird.love.Check out our 3 collections of Saints for Slackers swag (hoodies, tees, mugs, stickers, totes, etc) at: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.

Virgin, Witness, WarriorSt. Catherine of Alexandria was martyred for her faith around the early 4th century. She debated pagan philosophers of her time, convinced many souls to convert to Christianity, and is revered both in the East and the West.We have Little With Great Love's NEW editor, Caitlyn Pszonka as our podcaster today!Caitlyn is first and foremost a beloved daughter of God and uses her gifts as a co-creator for love of Him and His Body, the Church. With degrees in Creative Writing and Theology, she loves to get at deeper truths through telling stories in various forms, including novels, poems, plays, and songs. She shares her visual art, in addition to reflections on diving ever deeper in love with God, at Heart to Sacred Heart.**Read more about today's featured podcaster and saint here: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/st-catherine-of-alexandria/This podcast is sponsored by: Red Bird Ministries, a non-profit, pro-life, and pro-family, Catholic grief support ministry serving individuals and couples who have experienced the loss of a child from pregnancy through adulthood. Find their grief resources, including their Restoring Love 33-day Consecration to the Holy Family for couples of loss, at redbird.love.Check out our 3 collections of Saints for Slackers swag (hoodies, tees, mugs, stickers, totes, etc) at: https://www.littlewithgreatlove.com/shop/Special thanks to slacker co-host, Jeff Sanchez; and musician Rev. Dr. Martin Lohrmann.