The Fairest Love Shrine Podcast

In this this week's episode, we spoke with Dr. Ryan Hanning, professor, author, and co-writer of The Willpower Advantage, about the essential role of fortitude in family life. Dr. Hanning offers a compelling look at how this virtue—rooted in strength, perseverance, and trust—can be intentionally cultivated through the ordinary challenges of daily living. The conversation explores how fortitude and willpower work together to form resilient children and steadfast parents. Dr. Hanning shares practical strategies for helping families embrace discomfort, grow through failure, and build lasting character. Be sure to check out his website and book!

In this episode, we welcome Gerard Migeon and Jackie Aguilar from Natural Womanhood for an insightful conversation on fertility awareness and natural family planning. Together, we explore the growing movement toward education-based, body-literate approaches to women's health and the cultural shift away from one-size-fits-all solutions. Gerard and Jackie discuss common misconceptions around fertility awareness, the value of open dialogue between parents and children, and how understanding the female cycle empowers women at every stage of life.To learn more about their mission and educational resources, visit https://naturalwomanhood.org

In this week's episode, we spoke with Sr. Mary Dominic of the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, about the power of gratitude in daily life. Sister shares her journey of faith and offers gentle, practical wisdom on how to foster a grateful heart—especially in the midst of everyday challenges. The conversation centers on the connection between gratitude and our identity as children of God, and how cultivating a spirit of thankfulness can renew both family life and personal holiness. Her words serve as a reminder that gratitude is not only a virtue but a way of encountering God's love more deeply in our ordinary days.Check out the virtue program she mentions at Open Light Media!Instagram: @openlight_mediaYouTube: @OpenlightMedia

In this episode of the Fairest Love Podcast, we sit down with Alexandre Havard, founder of the Virtuous Leadership Institute, to explore the heart of authentic leadership and its foundation in virtue. Havard explains why magnanimity and humility are essential for anyone seeking to lead well—especially within the context of family life. The conversation dives into how different temperaments influence leadership styles, the importance of overcoming past wounds or negative leadership experiences, and the role of personal planning in growing in virtue.We also discuss how parents can inspire their children to take ownership of their own leadership journeys, beginning right at home.Learn more about Alexandre Havard and Virtuous Leadership by visiting https://hvli.org/

In this episode, we speak with Peter and Theresa Martin, founders of the Wojtyła Community & Institute, about the power of community in supporting marriage and family life. Rooted in the teachings of St. John Paul II, the Martins share their inspiring journey of creating a movement that helps couples grow in conjugal spirituality, mutual support, and shared purpose.The conversation explores how intentional communities can strengthen family culture, revive struggling marriages, and create spaces where faith and joy flourish. Like what you heard? Check them out on the After Cana podcast! Learn more about their mission on their website.

In this episode of the Fairest Love podcast, we speak with JL Marti, CEO of the Fairest Love Family Project, about the profound connection between vocation, family, and faith. JL shares his personal journey from Spain to the U.S., his life as a numerary in Opus Dei, and how his vocation has shaped his understanding of love, presence, and purpose.The conversation explores the importance of discernment, the quiet beauty of finding God in daily life, and the vital role families play in helping children recognize and pursue their unique callings.JL reflects on the influence of his own parents in his vocational journey, the mission of Opus Dei in the modern world, and the hope he sees for the future of family life—rooted in unconditional love, faith, and devotion to Mary, Mother of Fair Love.To learn more about the Fairest Love Family Project, visit: https://www.fairestlovefamilyproject.org/

At the Family Enrichment Conference in San Antonio this past March, we spoke with Leticia Rodriguez, Director of the International Federation for Family Development (IFFD), about the beauty and significance of marriage in building strong families and a flourishing society. Drawing from years of experience in family enrichment and global advocacy, Leticia shares why she believes marriage is the masterpiece of our lives. The conversation explores how couples can strengthen their relationship through intentional communication, emotional connection, and shared purpose. Leticia references insights from John Gottman's research on marital stability and the practical wisdom of the Love Languages to help couples understand and serve one another more deeply.To learn more about IFFD and their work, visit there website at https://iffd.org/

In this episode of the Fairest Love Podcast, we speak with Rosa Pich, one of the most inspiring voices on family life in Europe and the author of How to Be Happy with 1, 2, 3... Children.Rosa, a mother of 18, shares her powerful testimony of love, faith, and perseverance in raising a large family while enduring suffering and loss. She offers a deeply joyful perspective on the vocation of motherhood, the value of family prayer and unity, and how to remain hopeful and faithful in the face of trials.To learn more about Rosa, visit her website. You can find her book Rosa, What's Your Secret? Raising a Large Family with Love on Scepter Publishers' website.

We're sharing how Mary has been a mother to previous guests on the show!Through her intercession, she has provided peace and consolation to those who have placed their intentions before her. Join the Fairest Love Prayer Circle to make a request or prayer for others and be sure to save the prayer to Mary, Mother of Fairest Love!Be sure to listen to the full episode of each of our guests by following the links below!The Value of Our Participation in Politics with Louis JonesThe Power of Relationships in Vocations with Sr. M. KarolynAccompanying Parents Through a Prenatal Diagnosis with Tracy Winsor

In this SPECIAL episode of the Fairest Love podcast, CEO of the Fairest Love Family Project, JL Marti, explores how parents can support their children through some of the most difficult emotional challenges of growing up in today's digital culture—namely, the pressures of social media and the rising issue of pornography addiction.This conversation unpacks the emotional imprints left by these key life experiences and offers practical advice on how to recognize the signs of addiction, prevent harmful behaviors, and communicate with love and clarity.DISCLAIMER: This episode contains conversations about pornography and addiction.

In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Catholic mindset coach Kylie Hein to explore how understanding the four temperaments—choleric, sanguine, melancholic, and phlegmatic—can transform the way we relate to our family members. Kylie explains how each temperament influences emotions, communication, and behavior, offering practical advice for recognizing and nurturing the temperaments of both ourselves and our children. With an emphasis on virtue, gratitude, and intentional parenting, Kylie shares how the temperaments can be a powerful tool for personal growth and family unity.You can book Kylie for a coaching session or listen to her podcast on her website. Check out Metanoia Catholic for more information about the Temperaments!

In this episode of the Fairest Love Podcast, we're joined by Deb Meyer, financial advisor and founder of Worthy Nest, to explore the role of money in family life through the lens of stewardship and gratitude. Deb shares her own journey with finances, including how faith and values shape her approach to saving, spending, and giving. Together, we discuss practical ways parents can model healthy financial habits, teach children about money, and stay grounded in generosity—especially in times of financial stress.Listen to Deb's finance podcast, Beyond Budgets, and/or connect with her on LinkedIn!

In this episode, certified nutrition coach Lindsey Marie explores the powerful link between nutrition and mental health. She shares her personal journey of overcoming exhaustion and discovering how targeted nutrition can restore energy, improve mood, and support overall well-being. Lindsey highlights the role of amino acids and protein in brain function and offers practical tips for parents to nourish themselves and their children.Visit Lindsey's website to learn more about amino acid therapy and her coaching. She's also on Facebook!

In this episode, Monica Hinderer, a licensed clinical professional counselor, discusses how parents can recognize signs of anxiety and stress in their children.We explore when it may be time to seek professional help, the importance of parental involvement in therapy, and practical coping strategies for families. Monica offers guidance on trusting parental instincts, communicating with children about mental health, and finding the right therapist. You can hear more from Monica on the Relevant Radio show, Marriage Unhindered, Thursdays from 5-6pm cst.

Parenting today comes with plenty of stress—but how can families navigate it in a healthy way?In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Mario Sacasa, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, shares practical strategies for managing stress and anxiety, fostering resilience, and strengthening family connections.He explores the impact of technology on mental health, the power of open communication, and how parents can support their children through life's challenges. Learn more from Dr. Sacasa by visiting his website, exploring his Stress & Anxiety course, and listening to his podcast.

Moms today have a lot on their plates, maybe more so than previous generations. This week we are rebroadcasting our episode with guest, Catholic Mom Coach Sterling Jaquith, shares simple tips and tricks to overcome that mommy overwhelm. Her advice comes not just from being a certified life coach but also from experiencing the overwhelm and burnout herself – and realizing there had to be a better way!

In this episode, Hannah Morgan, founder of Heron House Management, discusses the realities of parenting and household management in today's fast-paced world. As a working mom, Hannah understands the daily struggles families face and shares how her virtual house management service helps reduce stress and bring order to family life. She offers practical advice on creating clear routines, managing emotional stress, and involving children in household tasks to build a sense of teamwork. The conversation also explores common challenges parents face when implementing new systems and how to overcome them.Learn more about Hannah's work at Heron House Management and listen to her podcast, Destress the Nest. IG: @heronhousemanagement

In this class, Fr. Paul Donlan explains that the human person is made in God's image and likeness, not just because he is endowed with an intellect and will, but because he is called to live in a communion of persons––namely, in a family.

In this episode, Sister Karolyn, the vocations director for the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, shares her inspiring vocation story and the beauty of life in religious community. She discusses the importance of relationships—both within her community and with the families who support vocations. Sister Karolyn offers practical ways parents can encourage their children in discernment and incorporate faith into family life through the liturgical year.

In this episode of the Fairest Love Podcast, licensed marriage and family therapist Doug Hinderer shares insights on building a strong, enduring marriage through intentionality, prayer, and forgiveness.He highlights the importance of daily investment in the relationship, practicing gratitude, and understanding the spiritual aspects of suffering within marriage.Doug also introduces his book, Rekindled Hearts: A Spiritual Journey to Marital Healing, which offers a faith-based approach to marital healing, blending spiritual growth with practical guidance.Doug's book will be available everywhere on February 14, but you can preorder it on Scepter Publishers' website! Be sure to catch Doug on his Relevant Radio Show, Marriage Unhindered, Monday through Friday from 5-6pm cst.

In this episode of the Fairest Love Podcast, we hear from Catholic life coach and mom of 7, Janet Quinlan, to discuss the essential elements of building strong family relationships. We explore the different stages of parenting, the importance of setting family goals, and the challenges of balancing friendship and authority with children. Janet shares valuable insights on fostering connection through communication, consistency, and faith while maintaining healthy boundaries. You can find Janet's parenting course and resources designed to support moms in their families on her website.

In this episode of the Fairest Love podcast, we chat with professional organizer Claire Pelletier, who shares her expert advice on creating functional and beautiful spaces for families.Claire opens up about her journey into professional organizing, her unique client-focused approach, and practical tips for tackling clutter in family homes. She emphasizes the value of involving kids in the organizing process, offers solutions to common challenges, and reveals her favorite tools and products for staying organized. You can follow Claire on social media @simplifywithclaire and visit her website to learn about her services and contact information!

We are joined by author Julia Ubbenga as she shares her inspiring journey to minimalism and insights from her upcoming book, Declutter Your Heart and Your Home. Julia explores how modern life's excess can overwhelm families and explains how minimalism fosters peace and intentional living. She offers practical tips for decluttering both physical spaces and mental burdens, making this lifestyle accessible for everyone. Julia also discusses teaching children about minimalism, navigating relationships with loved ones who may not share the same mindset, and how faith shapes her approach to simplicity. You can pre-order Julia's book on Amazon, visit her website, or follow her on social media (@richinwhatmatters)

In this episode of the newest season of the Fairest Love Podcast, author Dia Boyle discusses her book, The Thoughtful Home, and the importance of creating a nurturing, intentional family environment.She shares practical advice, like prioritizing family meals and human connection, to counter the distractions of modern life. Dia offers insights on overcoming challenges to build a home filled with joy, peace, and meaningful relationships. Listen in to learn how thoughtful habits can transform your home into a haven of love and connection. You can purchase Dia's book, The Thoughtful Home, at Scepter Publishers. You can find the book study guide and other information on her website.

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Tim Reckart, the talented director of the heartwarming animated film The Star. Released in 2017, this film offers a unique retelling of the Nativity story through the eyes of the animals who witnessed it. Tim takes us behind the scenes of this unforgettable journey, sharing insights into his creative process, the beauty of storytelling through different characters, and the message he hopes viewers carry with them long after the credits roll. Visit www.sycamorestudios.com to see more projects that Tim is working on in hopes of bringing truth, goodness, and beauty to culture!

As we begin the Advent season, we wanted to share a special reflection from Fr. Luke Mata to help prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Christ at Christmas.We hope you find great joy and anticipation as you journey through this most beautiful season!

In this episode, we welcome Kenzie Covarrubias and Amber Hassett from Held in Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women and families experiencing miscarriage. Together, we discuss the healing process after a miscarriage, practical ways family members can offer support, and how Held in Hope provides tools and resources to aid in the healing journey. Kenzie and Amber share powerful insights and resources to encourage charity toward others and oneself during times of loss. Learn more about their mission and access resources at Held in Hope.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains topics of conversation that may be sensitive for some listeners.As we continue discussing the topic of grief this month, we had the opportunity to interview psychiatrist, Dr. Julian Lagoy from California.Dr. Lagoy has extensive experience in the mental health field and provides important insights into depression and mental health within families.This podcast shares warning signs, possible treatments, and clarifies terminology that can help parents in understanding how to help their children who may be struggling. If you're in California and are in need of services, visit Dr. Julian's webpage at Mindpath Health.

As we continue this month of grief and finding hope, we spoke with Amanda, the founder and director of Alienated Grandparents Anonymous. We discuss the significant impact that grandparents have on their grandchildren and how removing them from that relationship can be detrimental to both the grandparent and grandchild. Amanda shares steps grandparents can take to recover the lost relationship with their children in hopes of forgiveness and healing. Want to learn more about this organization? Receive the newsletter and information about support sessions by emailing againternationalheadquarters@gmail.com Read Amanda's book, I Thought I Was the Only One: Grandparent Alienation: A Global Epidemic

On this episode of the podcast, we brought on Tracy Winsor, co-founder and Parent Director of the organization Be Not Afraid, to discuss hope in the midst of a prenatal diagnosis. Through experience of her own, Tracy found that there was no help or guidance for parents who receive a prenatal diagnosis that respected the dignity of the child in the womb. She co-founded the organization Be Not Afraid to do just that, remaining in line with Church teaching and the research. Be Not Afraid has transformed into an organization that trains other entities through their BNA model to walk with parents and provide support and encouragement throughout pregnancy. You can learn more about Be Not Afraid by visiting their website. Instagram: @benotafraidofficial Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeNotAfraid.Net

In this special broadcast, we sat down with engagement director at Them Before Us, Patience Sunne. She shares with us the importance of being informed so as to protect the rights of children throughout the United States.Them Before Us is an organization that educates on the rights of children, especially towards having a mother and father. They encourage understanding policies and laws that could affect a child's rights and provide many resources for people interested in protecting children.Sign the Vote Pro-Child Pledge here and make the commitment to vote in the 2024 elections for the rights of children. You can visit their website at https://thembeforeus.com/ or follow them on Instagram @them_before_us

On the podcast today, we are joined by Dr. Jonathan Culp, Department Chair and professor of politics at the University of Dallas, to discuss the American political system and how to evaluate a political candidate when it comes to voting. Dr. Culp shares tools for discerning the truth and strengthening your own personal development when it comes to understanding politics. To learn more about American History and our political system, visit teachingamericanhistory.org and/or read The Federalist Papers And for teens and middle schoolers, check out The Young Citizen's Reader

Did you know that the Church has a social doctrine that establishes principles for civic participation? On this episode of the podcast, we spoke with Louis Jones, licensed social worker and behavioral health therapist, to understand how the Church helps inform us in our voting and the responsibility to make our communities reflections of Christ.Louis walks us through the Church's social teaching and values as well as our responsibilities as lay members of the Church to participate in community elections and growth.You can see all of Louis' works and conversations by following this link.

Have you considered praying to Mary, Mother of Fairest Love, for the needs of your family or children? That's just what Laurel Johnson did when she discovered that her granddaughter needed medical intervention and miraculous healing. In this very special episode, Laurel shares why and how she turned to Mary during the most difficult times of her life and the fruits of trusting in Mary's intercession. This interview is an inspiration to grow in a deeper relationship with Mary! View the prayer card to Mary, Mother of Fairest Love, and join the prayer circle by visiting the website.

Author of the new book, Awake Not Woke, Noelle Mering joins us for this episode. She shared insights from her research on the woke movement, how to navigate this trend within the family, and more.Her book can be found at Tan Books. Noelle is also the co-author and contributor of Theology of Home.

In this special podcast episode, we had the opportunity to interview Sam Goodwin, entrepreneur and author of the book Saving Sam about his experiences of being held captive in Syria. Sam shares the story of how he was wrongfully imprisoned in Syria as well as the little things his parents did throughout his childhood that strengthened his faith and resiliency during this time of crisis. Sam speaks on a number of topics including embracing uncertainty. You can learn more about his story by reading his book Saving Sam and visiting his website.

On the podcast today, we had the privilege of speaking with Courtney Brown from the Ruah Woods Institute on how to teach children and teens the Theology of the Body. We discuss the Institute's K-12 curriculum, the importance of forming identity through TOB, and how it helps children navigate today's culture. Learn practical ways to bring these teachings into your home and guide your child's understanding of relationships, dignity, and self-worth. You can find the curriculum on Ruah Woods Institute's website as well as view other resources and sign up for their newsletter!

On this episode of the podcast we're diving into classical education and how it aims to educate the whole person. William Perales, the Director of the University of Dallas' Saint Ambrose Center, shares his passion and knowledge of classical education. Through the Five Essential Marks, storytelling, and the development of the imagination, classical education helps foster the foundations of who we are as human beings and prepares young minds for a lifelong love of learning. The Saint Ambrose Center aims to help bring classical education to schools throughout the United States by providing professional development and consultation.

On today's podcast, we're discussing how to begin the conversation about sex with your teens and children with licensed psychologist, Dr. Julia Sadusky.Julia has specialities in working with families, individuals, and couples around sexuality and gender. She provides thoughtful insights on how to help prepare parents in supporting their children as conversations about sexuality arise. You can purchase Julia's book, Talking with Your Teen About Sex: A Practical Guide for Catholics, here and visit her website here. Instagram: @drsadusky Facebook: facebook.com/drsadusky

Continuing the conversation about human dignity and sexuality, we brought Christina Valenzuela on the show to share with us practical advice on how to approach the conversation with our daughters about their changing bodies.Christina has been a Natural Family Planning instructor for over a decade and found the desire to share St. John Paul II's beauty of the “language of the body” with parents and children. Christina has several courses on her website for women at all different stages of development to help them better understand their bodies and to help parents explain the changes to their daughters. You can purchase her book, The Language of Your Body: Embracing God's Design for Your Cycle, here. Instagram: @pearlandthistle Facebook: facebook.com/pearlandthistle

On today's episode of the Fairest Love podcast, we're speaking with Brendan McCauley, co-founder of the Humanum Project, an organization dedicated to navigating topics around human identity and sexuality. Brendan shares his knowledge of John Paul II's Theology of the Body while giving practical tips for parents to consider when discussing human dignity with their children. You can learn more about the Humanum Project by visiting their website or following them on social media. Instagram: @humanumproject Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/humanumproject

Enjoy this rebroadcast from season 2 with registered oncology nurse and certified health and nutrition coach Cris Bofill shares some helpful tips with us about healthy eating. She provides insights into shopping, nutrition labels, and even how to get picky eaters to eat their veggies!Cris can be found online here.

We're sitting down with Mary Rice Hasson to discuss the importance of choosing a school that values and encourages the truth of your child's identity and safeguards your family's values. Mary organized the Catholic Women's Forum, and as she continued to research the issues related to femininity and identity, she found the incorporation of ideologies in schools that were detrimental to the human person. Mary co-founded and directs the Person and Identity Project, an initiative that educates and equips parents and faith-based institutions to promote the truth about the human person. Twitter: @maryricehasson and @personandid Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PersonandIdentity

On this episode of the Fairest Love Podcast, we're diving into advice from the experts we previously interviewed on the show. As we explore the beauty of family life this month, we wanted to share the thoughts and words of several guests who have provided their experience to help us learn how to raise children well. You can find the link to the full episode below.0:20 - Jordan Langdon (Saying No When Other Parents are Saying Yes)5:33 - Pilar Caranti (Forming the Will of Your Children)12:46 - Karen Bohlin (Literature and its Role in a Child's Life)18:25 - Amanda & Jonathan Teixeira (Working Through Finances in Marriage)

Adolescent therapist, Monica Hinderer, joins us again this week to talk about the best ways to navigate the start of a new school year. This is an opportunity for a fresh start, not just for the school-aged children but for the whole family. She shares three words to keep in mind: Patience, Schedule, and Balance.

In this episode of the Fairest Love Podcast, we had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Susan Hanssen, history professor at the University of Dallas in Irving, Texas. Dr. Hanssen shares with us an extensive yet approachable view of the history of the American family and our foundations rooted in freedom.Dr. Hanssen has written numerous scholarly articles on history within Western Civilization and the world. A notable article from our conversation today can be found on The Public Discourse titled “Complementarity: Lessons from Little House in the Big Woods.” For parents wanting to have a deeper appreciation for the American family, Dr. Hanssen recommends reading The Little House on the Prairie series as well as A Midwife's Tale: The Life of Martha Ballard.

Prior to heading to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, we wanted to share a brief episode with some responses from previous guests answering the question, “How has Mary been a mother to you?”We hope that their words can inspire you to grow in a deeper relationship with Mary.View the prayer to Mary, Mother of Fairest Love HERE and join in the Prayer Circle on our website.

DISCLAIMER - This episode contains discussion of sensitive content. Please be advised. As we continue to discuss freedom, Steve Pokorny, founder of Freedom Coaching, joins us on the show to talk about finding freedom from pornography and maintaining it.Steve's insights are powerful and help us to understand the difference between addiction and compulsion. His coaching-based program highlights the importance of strengthening the understanding of human sexuality in order to work against a compulsion to pornography. You can learn more about Steve's program by visiting his website or by reading his book, Redeemed Vision.

As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, we have army chaplain, Fr. Peter Pomposello, discussing the value of freedom and his experiences ministering to those in the armed forces.Through his various anecdotes and analogies, Fr. Peter paints a clear picture of the beauty of freedom, how we can use it responsibly, and how we can honor those who have safeguarded it. You can find Fr. Peter on Instagram! @fr.unclesam

On this week's podcast we are joined by Julie Larkin, founder of the nonprofit Girl Talk. Through profound experiences of her own, Julie saw a need for sisterhood and friendship amongst girls who experience loneliness and self-doubt. Julie shares her thoughts on how parents can encourage their children to grow in their identities as sons and daughters of God as well as in self-confidence and friendship with others. You can learn more about Girl Talk by visiting their website or following on Instagram (@ourgirltalk).

What does it mean to be truly confident and how can we help our children establish a sense of their unique worth and dignity? This week, mental health expert and a co-founder of Cana Vox, Ana Bethencourt Yrasquin shares her insights.