Podcast appearances and mentions of maria johnson

Maria Johnson interviews Nancy Smith, O.F.S., Director of Holy Cross Retreat House in North Easton, Massachusetts.   from the Holy Cross Retreat House intro: Launched in 1964 in a converted cow barn, the Retreat House has been a spiritual haven for thousands who have passed through its welcoming doors. It is located in Easton, Massachusetts, adjacent to Stonehill College, also founded by the Congregation of Holy Cross. The Retreat House is operated solely on private donations and retreat fees, and receives no state or federal funding. Among retreat houses in the Boston area and south of Boston, our retreat house has established its “market niche” by emphasizing Cursillo and Matt Talbot programs. Link in Show:  Holy Cross Retreat House: A Ministry of Congregation of Holy Cross Nancy Smith, Director

Life, especially military life, is replete with transitions. Maria Johnson is a best-selling author and speaker. As a military wife Maria encountered Catholic saints who have accompanied her through life. In this conversation Maria shares about her new book "A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters Who Taught me to Age With Grace." In her new book Maria explores the adventure of life's second half, drawing inspiration from twenty saints and “soul sisters” who faced these challenges with courage.As advancements in health and medicine extend our lifespan, women of the sandwich generation—those balancing the needs of both children and parents—are experiencing a multitude of challenges as they transition out of the workforce and into the promise of retirement. This book contains encouragement and wisdom from saints and contemporary soul sisters who experienced similar challenges during their transition to midlife and beyond and offers insight into the aging process.Chapter after chapter, these inspiring saints and contemporary changemakers from all over the world will help you, too, embrace your second half and the changes it brings to our health, our personal relationships, our responsibilities, our work, and our faith.

In Texas, convicted murderer Ed Bell claimed he killed 11 girls between Houston and Galveston back in the 1970s. Reporter Lise Olsen and detective Fred Paige investigated those claims and uncovered eerie ties between Bell and several unresolved murders. In particular, they focused on three cases: all of them, double homicides of teenage best friends. Did Ed Bell really kill Debbie Ackerman and Maria Johnson, Sharon Shaw and Renee Johnson, and Brooks Bracewell and Georgia Geer? Why did investigators dismiss his confessions so quickly? And what about Ed's claim of a massive brainwashing conspiracy called “The Program”? You can watch Lise and Fred's investigation unfold in the docuseries The Eleven. And check out Lise's nonfiction book, The Scientist and the Serial Killer, debuting in April 2025: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/720488/the-scientist-and-the-serial-killer-by-lise-olsen/ Keep up with us on Instagram @serialkillerspodcast! Have a story to share? Email us at serialkillerstories@spotify.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is episode 51 of the Love, Hope, Lyme podcast. To get your free e-version of "Love, Hope, Lyme: What Family Members, Partners, and Friends Who Love a Chronic Lyme Survivor Need to Know," reach out to Fred Diamond on social media. [NOTE: This podcast does not replace medical treatment. If you struggle with Lyme care, please see a Lyme Literate Medical Doctor.] In this powerful episode, Fred Diamond sits down with Ashley Baker and Maria Johnson, passionate advocates from Project Lyme's Emerging Leaders Board. They share their personal journeys with chronic Lyme disease, the fight for proper recognition and treatment, and the relentless push to educate others about the realities of this misunderstood illness. Key Highlights:

Good morning! On today's show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell continue to share updates on how Pope Francis has been doing, and discuss how Catholic leaders have responded to the Trump administration's announcement to radically expand access to IVF. Guests include Maria Johnson on saints who can serve as models for the second half of life, and Fr. Rob Jack on parallels between the "winter blahs" and the spiritual life. Plus news, weather, sports, and more...

Good morning! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell continue to share updates on how Pope Francis has been doing, and discuss how Catholic leaders have responded to the Trump administration’s announcement to radically expand access to IVF. Guests include Maria Johnson on saints who can serve as models for the second half of life, and Fr. Rob Jack on parallels between the “winter blahs” and the spiritual life. Plus news, weather, sports, and more… ***** A Morning Offering O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer You my prayers, works, joys, and sufferings of this day in union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world. I offer them for all the intentions of Your Sacred Heart: the salvation of souls, reparation for sin, and the reunion of all Christians. I offer them for the intentions of our bishops and of all Apostles of Prayer, and in particular for those recommended by our Holy Father this month. ***** Maria Johnson, author of A Beautiful Second Act: Saints Who Taught Me to Age with Grace Cincinnati Right to Life is online at cincinnatirighttolife.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Looking for faith-filled ways to celebrate Valentine's Day? Maria Johnson and Allison Gingras have a fun conversation about love languages and romantic love, and being God's beloved. And you get a peek at A Beautiful Second Act (Ave Maria Press), which will be featured in the March Catholic Mom Book Club. Love isn't just for one day—it's a call we live daily as Catholic moms.  Links Discussed in Show: Simple Ways to Connect with Your Spouse This Valentine's Day Love: Scriptures to Pray This Valentine's Day St.Valentine's Day Prepares Us to Love

Maria Johnson and Allison Gingras talk about resolutions and anti-resolutions, sprinkling a little wisdom in the mix. Maria Johnson and Allison Gingras catch up after the holidays and have a good laugh about resolutions and the efficacy of setting goals instead. Links in the Show: Style Savvy: Rethinking Resolutions by Lisa Hess Strings Attached by Amanda Lawrence Failed Resolutions by Sarah Reinhard

SummaryIn this episode of Service Evolution, host Jim Robinson dives deep into the transformative power of human resources with none other than the three-time MVP award-winning HR powerhouse, Maria Johnson. With her remarkable approach to hiring and fostering a culture rooted in compassion and values, Maria is changing the game in the corporate world.From the outset, Jim sets the tone by highlighting Maria's exceptional ability to integrate gut instinct with professional insight in hiring practices. Maria's journey into her current role began with meticulous research and an initial interview with the company's CFO, where she felt an immediate connection that resonated with her personal and professional values. This pivotal moment solidified her resolve to join a company that truly values HR as a service-oriented department.A central theme of the episode is the concept of "second chance hiring"—a practice that Maria champions passionately. Her approach is predicated on the belief that everyone, regardless of their past, deserves an opportunity to rebuild and thrive. This philosophy not only transforms the lives of the individuals hired but also enriches the company's culture by fostering an environment of understanding and compassion.Additionally, Maria's role goes beyond traditional HR functions; she is a beacon of hope and support for employees. Her ability to connect with people, ask insightful questions, and build rapport quickly has made her an invaluable asset. Her dedication is evident in the stories of employees who, given a second chance, have not only turned their lives around but have also become integral parts of the company's success.This episode is a must-listen for anyone in HR or leadership roles. Maria's story and insights provide a roadmap for creating a more inclusive, supportive, and ultimately successful workplace. Tune in now!Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(03:49) Connecting Virtually with Technology(06:52) How Empathy Fosters Opportunity and Growth(10:47) Trusting in Your Gut and Investing in People(16:11) Identifying Overlooked Service Opportunities(16:45) Embracing Second-Chance Hiring(19:23) Closing ThoughtsLinksJim Robinson CGP Maintenance and Construction ServicesMaria Johnson

In this episode of the Catholic Momcast, hosts Maria Johnson, Victoria Hassan, and Stephen Driscoll welcome relationship coach Dana Nygaard to discuss navigating dating for young people. Dana shares practical advice rooted in faith, emphasizing the importance of self-worth, clear boundaries, and open communication. Together, they explore how parents can guide their children through the challenges of modern dating with grace and wisdom. Links in Show: https://clarityplease.com/ https://www.dananygaard.com/ https://www.christiancomfortcounseling.com/

In this episode, Maria Johnson and Allison Gingras catch up on their Advent experiences and recap some recent Advent articles by contributors. Links in Show: Slow Down and Embrace the Advent Season by Tina Mayeaux Prepare for Rest This Season: It CAN Happen by MaryBeth Eberhard A Declaration of Hope by Kathryn Pasker Ineck

In this episode, Maria Johnson is joined by Catholic Mom contributor, Charlene Rack, for a lovely conversation with Rebecca and Stephen Grabill, authors of The Joy of Advent. Links in Show: The Joy of Advent Rebecca Grabill website Review by Charlene Rack: The Joy of Advent  

Join Catholic Mom team members Maria Johnson, Barb Szyszkiewicz, Allison Gingras, and Victoria Hassan for a round robin conversation about Advent traditions and practices. Links in Show:  Advent sweatshirt from Catholic artist Nichole Lanthier on Etsy Kelly Guest article: "Prepare for Advent Prayer: Now is the time!"  Barb Szyszkiewicz book review, "3 Books to Buy Before Advent"  Advent Playlist Follow CatholicMomCommunity on Instagram for Snap Advent

Maria Johnson welcomes contributor Sherry Hayes-Peirce for an enlightening conversation about the Camino of Santiago and the power of pilgrimage. Catholic Mom contributor Sherry Hayes-Peirce shares her experience of walking the Way of St. James, also known as the Camino of Santiago de Compostela, a 9th century walking pilgrimage to the city of Compostela where the remains St. James, son of Zebedee, are believed to be. Many routes leading to Compostela exist, originating in France, Portugal, or within Spain. Sherry Hayes-Peirce is a Catholic social media strategist, blogger, conference speaker, podcast guest and contributing author of the Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers. She serves as Digital Engagement Coordinator for American Martyrs Catholic Community in Manhattan Beach, CA. Sherry has a devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and is grateful to be a digital disciple of Christ. Read all articles by Sherry Hayes-Peirce. Show Notes:  Walk In A Relaxed Manner: Life Lessons from the Camino by Joyce Rupp The Way, My Way: A Camino Memoir by Bill Bennett Movie: "The Way" starring Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez Instagram: church_social_tips Facebook: Sherry Sheridan Hayes-Peirce  

Maria Johnson and Barb Szyszkiewicz welcome Gretchen and Bill O'Brien from Room Two Productions, for a lively conversation about sound editing, music, and Fr. Patrick Peyton. Room 2 Productions helps Catholic Mom bring our stories to life through expert podcast production, audio storytelling, and digital media services. They offer personalized support from concept development to final editing, dedicated to the technical details so the Catholic Mom team can focus on great content from our guests.  Links in Show: RoomTwoProductions.com  YouTube: William R O'Brien  Spotify: William R O'Brien  Amazon Music: William R O'Brien 

Maria Johnson is joined by Andrew MacDonald, Director of Mission Advancement for Holy Cross Family Ministries, to interview Chris and Michael Flood, co-founders of Family Rosary Rallies. Chris and Michael Flood are co-founders of FamilyRosaryRallies.org.  Links for the Show: Family Rosary Rallies Fr. Patrick Peyton Rallies Instagram-- Family Rosary Rallies

Maria Johnson and Catholic Mom contributor, Kristina Talbot interview the mother and son filmmakers behind the powerful film about Boys Town, Blue Baby. Matters Media announces the new feature documentary film BLUE BABY that follows eight boys through Fr. Edward J. Flanagan's Boys Town, a prison alternative established in Omaha, Nebraska in 1917. With unprecedented access, filmmakers take the audience inside Boys Town to a world that challenges what people have believed about problem behavior for thousands of years. This is a film that goes beyond the heart of a Catholic priest, and into the real-world impact of what he created. BLUE BABY will be available starting October 9. We need your help to get the word out via your network of influence. About the filmmakers:  Josh and Lisa Sabey are the filmmakers behind American Tragedy, The Basement Talks, Blue Baby, and Going Sane. Their film American Tragedy won best documentary at the prestigious Boston Film Festival where it was one of three films screened opening night. (The other two were Terrence Malick's USA premiere of A Hidden Life and Taika Waititi's Jo Jo Rabbit.) Their latest film, The Basement Talks, debuted on Prime Video, Apple TV, and PBS World.  Links in Show: Watch the trailer here:

Maria Johnson and Barb Szyszkiewicz are joined by Catholic Mom contributor and author, Karen Estep, for a fun conversation about Fall memories and traditions. Barb Szyszkiewicz, senior editor at CatholicMom.com, is a wife, mom of 3 young adults, and a Secular Franciscan. Barb enjoys writing, cooking, and reading, and is a music minister at her parish. Find her blog at FranciscanMom and her family's favorite recipes with nutrition information  at Cook and Count. Barb is the author of The Handy Little Guide to Prayer and The Handy Little Guide to the Liturgy of the Hours, available from Our Sunday Visitor. Karen Estep is the host of the podcast Stand, Kneel, Now What? In coming home to the Catholic faith as an adult she hopes to share her love of the Church on a daily basis. Karen has been shown many graces through the Sacraments even through all of her blunders. She hopes to help other adults navigate their faith journey as well.   Maria Morera Johnson, author of My Badass Book of Saints, Super Girls and Halos, and Our Lady of Charity: How a Cuban Devotion to Mary Helped Me Grow in Faith and Love writes about all the things that she loves. A cradle Catholic, she struggles with living in the world but not being of it, and blogs about those successes and failures, too.   Links for Show:  Read all articles by Barb Szyszkiewicz. Read all articles by Karen Estep. Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson.

Maria Johnson and Barb Szyszkiewicz welcome Catholic Mom contributor Kathryn Swegart for a lively conversation in our series show-casing our contributors. Kathryn Griffin Swegart is an award-winning author of Catholic books for children. Kathryn and her husband raised three children on a small farm in rural Maine. She is a professed member of the Secular Franciscan Order and contributor to Magnificat. Visit her website at KathrynSwegart.com.  Links in Show:  Read all articles by Kathryn Swegart. KathrynSwegart.com Magnificat Magazine

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton discuss praying for others as a beautiful act of love. Heidi Saxton is co-host of the CatholicMom.com Prayercast, and author of Stories of the Eucharist (OSV) and The Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers (Ave). She is also senior acquisitions editor for Ave Maria Press. She and her husband Craig divide their time between northern Michigan and West Palm Beach, Florida. You can read about her adventures on Life on the Road Less Traveled.  Maria Morera Johnson, author of My Badass Book of Saints, Super Girls and Halo, and Our Lady of Charity: How a Cuban Devotion to Mary Helped Me Grow in Faith and Love writes about all the things that she loves. A cradle Catholic, she struggles with living in the world but not being of it, and blogs about those successes and failures, too. Links in Episode: Read all articles by Heidi Hess Saxton. Books by Heidi Hess Saxton Stories of the Eucharist (OSV) Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson. Books by Maria Johnson

Maria Johnson interviews Ann Koshute, co-founder and Executive Director of Springs in the Desert, a Catholic infertility ministry. Ann Koshute holds a Master of Theological Studies from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family. She is co-founder and Executive Director of Springs in the Desert, a Catholic infertility ministry. She and her husband Keith are Byzantine Catholics, who married in 2011 and live in Central Pennsylvania. Links in Show: Springs in the Desert Facebook – Springs in the Desert Instagram - @springsinthedesert_ The Springs in the Desert Podcast, found wherever you like to listen  

Maria Johnson sits down with Liz Lantigua, founder of Good News! Book Fair, a wonderful alternative to the conventional book fairs in schools today. Good News! Book Fair for an Agenda-Free Alternative Good News! Book Fair started in 2014. They are headquartered in Florida with a second distribution center in Ohio and are now a program of Literacy Advocates USA, a nonprofit organization.  Good News! Boof Fair emphasizes how important it is for parents and educators to instill the joy of reading in children and provide fun, wholesome, inspiring books, promoting good entertainment collaborating with Family Theatre Productions and Angel Studios. Good News! Book Fair (GNBF) believes that if we can change the media, we can change the culture. They help parents and educators by curating titles, offering author presentations/book signings, literary programs that make reading fun, fundraising for libraries, and providing a place where anyone can purchase clean reads in an agenda-free environment.   Show Notes Links:  www.goodnewsbookfair.com

Maria Johnson welcomes podcaster Katie Ruvi, host of “Is This for Kids?” for an important conversation about internet safety for our children.  Katie Ruvi is a Catholic convert, a wife and mother of five. She lives in Indiana where she makes a couple of podcasts and is hopefully making the world better a little at a time. Welcome Katie – and we're going to breakthrough to find out what these couple of podcasts are.   “Is THIS For Kids?” Is a podcast to help parents navigate digital media while raising digital natives. We are trying to help parents know what's out there and how they can guide their children through an ever-changing culture and media landscape without fear or judgement…or fear of judgement! Welcome to the show, Katie.  Links in Show: @mrsruvi on social media The podcast is @itfkpodcast on Instagram isthisforkids.com We love to hear from you with feedback, questions & ideas for future podcast topics. Email us at editor@catholicmom.com or send us a voicemail or connect on social media.

Lisa Hendey and Maria Johnson sit down with Celeste Behe to discuss the St. Monica Ministry, an apostolate of prayer and support for families of those no longer practicing the faith. Lisa Hendey and Maria Johnson sit down with Celeste Behe to discuss the St. Monica Ministry, a dedicated community and prayer network offering support to the families and friends of fallen-away Catholics. It is a rapidly-growing apostolate, with subscribers in forty U.S. states, as well as in Spain, South Africa, Malta, Trinidad and Tobago, the Philippines, Nova Scotia, Ireland, Australia, and Canada.  Show Notes Links:  CelesteBehe.com   www.instagram.com/stmonicaministry/   www.facebook.com/stmonicaministry/ 

Join the CatholicMom Team, Lisa Hendey, Maria Johnson, Barb Szyszkiewicz, and Allison Gingras to celebrate a virtual baby shower for Bayleigh Marquis and all expectant mothers. This week, we gather our entire Catholic Mom team to talk about babies, advice for new mothers, and of course, to celebrate with Bayleigh and precious Baby M. We'll offer some sage advice from our Catholic Mom contributors and give Bayleigh an opportunity to share a little bit of her journey to motherhood.   

Join Lisa Hendey, Maria Johnson, Barb Szyszkiewicz, Allison Gingras, and Bayleigh Marquis for an early Christmas celebration at Catholic Momcast.     Join us for an early Christmas celebration! This week, we gather our entire Catholic Mom team for a joyful look at the Christmas season and our favorite family traditions. For a bonus, tune into the video recording of this conversation to catch our festive Christmas attire and “meet” us face to face.   Show Notes Links:  Christmas articles at Catholic Mom  Cookie Exchange: Mrs. Wagner's Cookies by Barb Szyszkiewicz  Cookie Exchange: Oreo Cookie Balls by Meg Matenaer  Cookie Exchange: Classic Italian Biscotti by Kate Taliaferro  Cookie Exchange: No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls by Jen Frost      Progressive Dinner:  Progressive Dinner: New England Gluten-Free Grown-Up Cocktail by Allison Gingras  Progressive Dinner: Granma's Rolls by Barb Szyszkiewicz  Progressive Dinner: Creamy Roasted Mushroom Soup by Lisa Schmidt  Progressive Dinner: Tuna Macaroni Salad by Sally Hagarty  Progressive Dinner: Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Scallions by Barbara Stein  Progressive Dinner: Chicken, Broccoli and Ziti by Lauri Nienaber  Progressive Dinner: One-Bowl Chocolate Cake by Carolyn Astfalk 

Lisa Hendey and Maria Johnson enjoy a conversation about storytelling with Anthony Barone Kolenc, the author of Murder at Penwood Manor. In this fifth book in The Harwood Mysteries, Xan, Christina, and Lucy must solve a murder and make life-changing decisions of their own before an innocent man is executed for the crime.  Antony Barone Kolenc is the author of The Harwood Mysteries, an inspirational medieval fiction series for youth that has won more than a dozen book awards. He is also the host of the radio show and podcast, The Shepherd's Pie. He is a retired Air Force officer, and he currently teaches at Ave Maria School of Law.  Show Notes Links:  http://www.antonykolenc.com/    https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-shepherds-pie  CatholicTeenBooks.com  

Lisa Hendey, Maria Johnson, Bayleigh Marquis, Allison Gingras and Barb Szyszkiewicz come together live for a special “Sound-seeing Pilgrimage” to the Father Peyton Center, the home of Holy Cross Family Ministries. Join our entire Catholic Mom team for a special “Sound-seeing Pilgrimage” to the Father Peyton Center, the home of Holy Cross Family Ministries. Lisa Hendey, Maria Johnson, Bayleigh Marquis, Allison Gingras and Barb Szyszkiewicz visit the Chapel, the Museum of Family Prayer, and the Faith Gallery. We conclude our tour at the gravesite of Venerable Patrick Peyton, CSC. Father Peyton, pray for us!  Show Notes Links:  Holy Cross Family Ministries  Museum of Family Prayer  Venerable Patrick Peyton, CSC  

Maria Johnson, Barb Szyszkiewicz, and Lisa Hendey chat about all things food in this fun episode about cooking as a chore, a hobby, a health tool, and a lifelong learning project. CatholicMom team members Maria Johnson, Barb Szyszkiewicz, and Lisa Hendey share their adventures in the kitchen in this lively chat about all things food.  Listen to this fun episode about cooking as a chore, a hobby, a health tool, and a lifelong learning project.  Show Notes Links:  Meatless Fridays at Catholic Mom   Plan to Eat Barb's recipe website: CookAndCount

Maria Johnson and Heidi Saxton welcome Peter Le, author of My Life of Grace. Peter Le has indeed lived a life of grace. He suffered polio as a child in the midst of warn torn Vietnam. As an immigrant to the United States in the 1980s, suffered again the trails of emigrating from his home and finding his way in a new country. Then in 2018 he discovered he had thyroid cancer, and thus began a new wave of great physical suffering. In his book, My Life of Grace, he shares the consolation he found despite his pain. Links in Show: My Life of Grace (the Ave Maria Press cite includes the download to the Our Lady of Lavang Novena and a prayer card)  

Lisa Hendey and Maria Johnson chat with longtime friends of Catholic Mom Lisa Henley Jones and Shelly Henley Kelly from Of Sound Mind and Spirit podcast. Lisa Hendey and Maria Johnson chat with longtime friends of Catholic Mom Lisa Henley Jones and Shelly Henley Kelly. Shelly and Lisa are two sisters on a journey of faith.  On their podcast, Of Sound Mind and Spirit, they discuss why faith is important and how they can live it in areas of parenting, community, mid-life, service, and marriage.  They're not perfect, and don't have all the answers.  But they invite you to walk with them as they explore ways to better know and grow in their faith – together.  Lisa Henley Jones is a wife, mom, and native Texan. Together with her sister Shelly, Lisa shared about her life as influenced by her faith at their website and on their podcast, Of Sound Mind and Spirit.  For fun, Lisa enjoys reading, walking, cheering on her teen daughter at soccer games and wearing the college colors of her young adult kids.   Shelly Henley Kelly is a wife, mother of three, and native Texan who writes and records with her sister on "Of Sound Mind and Spirit. When not writing or recording, Shelly can be found keeping the scorebook at her son's baseball games, diving deep into historical research, or hiding with a good book in between games.  Show Notes Links:  https://soundmindandspirit.com/  https://www.podpage.com/soundmindandspirit/ Instagram @SoundMindandSpirit  Facebook.com/SoundMindandSpirit  Twitter @SoundMindSpirit  Pinterest   pinterest.com/soundmindspirit/  Young Adult podcast mentioned: Holy Spontaneity 

Maria Johnson and Heidi Saxton welcome Rebecca Frech, author of Teaching in Your Tiara. Rebecca Frech is a contributing writer to The Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers and the author of the homeschool classic Teaching in Your Tiara. Links in Show: Teaching in Your Tiara Can We Friends The Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers

CatholicMom.com founder Lisa Hendey is joined by Maria Johnson and Bayleigh Marquis for a fun conversation about the Labor Day holiday weekend and fall plans. Lisa Hendey, Maria Morera Johnson and Bayleigh Marquis chat about the unofficial end of Summer, getting back to school and routines, and the mental reset that comes following Labor Day.  A sidebar about pens in our conversation leads us to a very important question: what is YOUR favorite pen/school supply? Links in Show: CatholicMom Prayercast with Fr Fred Jenga #1 The Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers

CatholicMom editor Maria Morera Johnson and contributor Heidi Hess Saxton welcome Fr Fred Jenga, President of Holy Cross Family Ministries, to a new podcast on prayer. In this inaugural episode of CatholicMom Prayercast, co-hosts Maria Johnson and Heidi Saxton welcome the President of Holy Cross Family Ministries, Father Fred Jenga. Fr. Fred shares his love of the Blessed Mother, the joy of singing as a form of prayer, and how prayer sustained him during a difficult time. As a spin-off of Catholic Momcast, we'll be sharing prayer stories, such as Fr. Fred's, to encourage you in your prayer journey. And of course, we'll be praying with you, and for you. Father Jenga is a priest of the Congregation of Holy Cross. The first Peyton Prayer Guild Chapters for children were formed under Father Jenga's leadership. He developed a program that brought children in schools and parishes together to learn the Rosary, pray for their families and learn about the life of Father Patrick Peyton. This program has grown and now thousands of children are participating. Father Jenga was born in Uganda, where he grew up on the banks of the River Nile and Lake Victoria, in the Ugandan district of Jinja. Father Jenga speaks several languages, including his ethnic language, Lusoga, as well as Luganda, Rutooro, Swahili, and Kinyarwanda. Links For the Show: Fr. Fred Jenga, C.S.C. biography Greetings from the New President of Holy Cross Family Ministries Fr. Patrick Peyton biography Holy Cross Family Ministries 

It's been 10 years of STEMming in Stilettos yall! I cannot believe it.  Here's a look back with me and Maria Johnson who was my co-host at the very beginning. We review the origin story of STEMming in Stilettos and many other things along the journey of where the podcast is today and how we got here. I hope you enjoy it. We will be celebrating all of August as we move into this new season. I sincerely want to thank all of the listeners for being ever so faithful in tuning in every month. Thank you! Support the showYou can find out more information about Dr. Toshia here:https://www.drtoshia.coSTEMming in Stilettos Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/xAc25J7UH9A

CatholicMom.com team members Maria Johnson, Barb Szyszkiewicz, and Bayleigh Westerlund share their thoughts on celebrating Mother's Day.  

Momcast co-hosts Maria Johnson, Allison Gingras, and Barb Szyszkiewicz share their feelings about spring cleaning with lots of laughs and some practical advice. Momcast co-hosts Maria, Allison, and Barb have fun in a round table episode discussing spring cleaning, company clean vs. family clean, and some insight into spiritual cleaning, too. Links for the show: Maria Morera Johnson: Books, Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram  Allison Gingras: Books, Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram  Barb Szyszkiewicz: Books, Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram 

November 15, 1971. Galveston, Texas. 15-year old Debbie Ackerman and 15-year old Maria Johnson are seen climbing into a white van outside an ice cream shop, but they never return home. Days later, the girls' bodies are found in a bayou and they are bound, nude from the waist down and have been shot to death. After several decades, a convicted murderer named Edward Harold Bell sends out letters in which he confesses to having killed Debbie and Maria. Bell also claims to be responsible for eleven murders which occurred in Texas during the 1970s and refers to the victims as “The Eleven Who Went to Heaven”, but no conclusive evidence ever links him to these crimes. This week, “The Trail Went Cold” releases the conclusion of our extensive two-part anniversary episode on the murders of eleven female victims known as “The Eleven Who Went to Heaven”: 15-year old Debbie Ackerman, 15-year old Maria Johnson, 14-year old Rhonda Renee Johnson, 13-year old Sharon Shaw, 13-year old Colette Wilson, 19-year old Gloria Gonzales, 12-year old Brooks Bracewell, 14-year old Georgia Geer, 14-year old Brenda Jones, 16-year old Kimberley Pitchford and 12-year old Suzanne Bowers. If you have information about any of these cases, please contact the tip line of the Galveston County District Attorney's Office at 1-800-566-2209. Additional Reading: “The Eleven” Series on the A&E Network https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Harold_Bell https://unsolvedmysteries.fandom.com/wiki/Edward_Bell https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murders_of_Rhonda_Johnson_and_Sharon_Shaw https://abc13.com/archive/8269239/ http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/Some-suspect-serial-killer-in-1971-Galveston-2078025.php http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/Confessions-of-a-cold-blooded-killer-2187501.php “Deliver Us: Three Decades of Murder and Redemption of the Infamous I-45/Texas Killing Fields” by Kathryn Casey https://nypost.com/2017/10/18/killer-who-claims-he-murdered-11-girls-may-have-lied-documentary/ https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Texas-killer-s-death-leaves-unanswered-13783107.php#photo-17259855 https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/shows/houston-matters/2019/04/22/330217/possible-serial-killer-dies-in-texas-prison/ Join us on Saturday, February 25 at 8:00pm ET for an online streaming marathon where we will be watching classic segments from “Unsolved Mysteries”. You can enter our screening room by clicking on this link. “The Trail Went Cold” is on Patreon. Visit www.patreon.com/thetrailwentcold to become a patron and gain access to our exclusive bonus content. “The Trail Went Cold” is doing a weekly livestream show on Vokl every Thursday from 7:00-8:00 PM ET as part of their “True  Crime Thursday” line-up. For more information, please visit their website. “The Trail Went Cold” is going to be appearing on podcast row at “Crimecon UK” at the Tower Bridge, Leonardo Royal Hotel & Spa in London on June 10-11, 2023, as well as “Crimecon” at the World Center Marriott in Orlando, Florida on September 22-24, 2023. To get a 10 % discount on the purchase of tickets to either event, please use our specialized promo  code, “COLD23”, by visiting https://www.crimecon.co.uk or https://www.crimecon.com. The Trail Went Cold is produced and edited by Magill Foote. All music is composed by Vince Nitro.

November 15, 1971. Galveston, Texas. 15-year old Debbie Ackerman and 15-year old Maria Johnson are seen climbing into a white van outside an ice cream shop, but they never return home. Days later, the girls' bodies are found in a bayou and they are bound, nude from the waist down and have been shot to […]

Kelly Wahlquist, author, speaker, and founder of WINE: Women in the New Evangelization, and author and educator Alyssa Bormes join Maria Johnson in an episode recorded at the Catholic Marketing Network in Schaumburg, Illinois. Kelly Wahlquist an inspiring Catholic author and speaker is the founder of WINE: Women In the New Evangelization and the Director for the Archbishop Flynn Catechetical Institute. She is the author of Created to Relate and creator and editor of Walk in Her Sandals, Gaze Upon Jesus, and Called By Name.  Alyssa Bormes is an educator at Chesterton Academy and at the Archbishop Flynn Catechetical Institute and the author of the Catechism of Hockey and the orchestor of the new WINE The Mother of Jesus is Wonderfully Real.   LINKS IN THE SHOW:  WINE: Women in the New Evangelization The Mother of Jesus is Wonderfully Real Walking with Mary Scripture Study Called by Name Kelly Wahlquist - Facebook Alyssa Bormes - Facebook

FocusOnFitness is a series of basic exercises you can do in your house, in the dorm or during a short break. Using the natural surrounding without having to find the right equipment, the best gym or the perfect time to do a little workout. Focus on Fitness is all about doing it when you can and hey, why not? Maria Johnson, aka Girl Gone Blind, joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to Focus on Fitness and how you can incorporate little nuggets of exercise without throwing your schedule off and being able to work out within your own time and space. In this Focus On Fitness episode, Maria and Jeff talk about Spinning and Biking. Yes, this involves a machine or a bike mounted on a stand, however, we want to provide some information to you so you can determine if this form of exercise is for you. We both agree that Spinning is a great calorie burner and most of all, gives them big muscles a good workout. Interval training is when one does some bursts of speed or resistance to a steady pace. Like standing up and pedaling hard during a commercial as you watch TV while spinning. Maria and Jeff find a few ways that keeps them focused on fitness and focused on the exercise without getting lost in the show or the music. It is important to keep the focus and get the best out of your hard work. Full Transcript Check out  some more Focus on Fitness episodes and if you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to let us know. You can find Maria on Twitter @Girl_Gone_Blind and follow her blog on the web at GirlGoneBlind.com.. You can find Jeff on Twitter @KnownAsJeff and check out more podcasts with a Blindness perspective on the web at www.BlindAbilities.com.   And remember: Consult a physician before performing this or any exercise program. This is especially important if you or your family have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, and to determine whether to perform or adapt any of the exercises  in this Focus on Fitness episode. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. If you start to feel any pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately  and contact your doctor or health care professional.   Thanks for Listening! Episode Web Site we would love to hear from you! Send us an email at info@BlindAbilities.com or give us a call and leave us some feedback at 612-367-6093

FocusOnFitness is a series of basic exercises you can do in your house, in the dorm or during a short break. Using the natural surrounding without having to find the right equipment, the best gym or the perfect time to do a little workout. Focus on Fitness is all about doing it when you can and hey, why not? Maria Johnson, aka Girl Gone Blind, joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to Focus on Fitness and how you can incorporate little nuggets of exercise without throwing your schedule off and being able to work out within your own time and space. In this Focus On Fitness episode, Maria and Jeff talk about the use of Dumbbells to exercise and keep those muscles toned and defined. A Dumbbell is a hand-held weight ranging from a pound to a huge amount of weight for body building. We are talking about the lighter end of the spectrum, from 2 pounds to 15 pounds. These affordable and easily stored Dumbbells can be used for various motions to isolate and focus your workout to specific muscles. From the Curl for bicepts and triceps to the presses and lifts for shoulders and lats, Maria and Jeff go over a few to get you going on toning up them muscles. Full Transcript Check out  some more Focus on Fitness episodes and if you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to let us know. You can find Maria on Twitter @Girl_Gone_Blind and follow her blog on the web at GirlGoneBlind.com.. You can find Jeff on Twitter @KnownAsJeff and check out more podcasts with a Blindness perspective on the web at www.BlindAbilities.com.   And remember: Consult a physician before performing this or any exercise program. This is especially important if you or your family have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, and to determine whether to perform or adapt any of the exercises  in this Focus on Fitness episode. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. If you start to feel any pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately  and contact your doctor or health care professional.   Thanks for listening! Episode Web Site we would love to hear from you! Send us an email at info@BlindAbilities.com or give us a call and leave us some feedback at 612-367-6093

FocusOnFitness is a series of basic exercises you can do in your house, in the dorm or during a short break. Using the natural surrounding without having to find the right equipment, the best gym or the perfect time to do a little workout. Focus on Fitness is all about doing it when you can and hey, why not? Maria Johnson, aka Girl Gone Blind, joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to Focus on Fitness and how you can incorporate little nuggets of exercise without throwing your schedule off and being able to work out within your own time and space. In this Focus On Fitness episode, Maria and Jeff talk about Creating your space and setting the stage for your exercise routine, yoga session and ensuring your free to exercise while keeping your space safe and free from obstacles. May it be a rug or a yoga mat, the tactile surface will keep your whereabouts in mind and you can feel safe to conduct your full exercise without getting disorientated. Maria talks about the space and how diffusers can bring about a setting fit for relaxing and setting the tone for Pilates or yoga. Music playlist from your smart devices can keep that drive going throughout your workout as well as video workouts. Hey, the music and instruction is sometimes audio friendly and once again, keeps you rockin' and rolin'. Full Transcript Check out  some more Focus on Fitness episodes and if you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to let us know. You can find Maria on Twitter @Girl_Gone_Blind and follow her blog on the web at GirlGoneBlind.com.. You can find Jeff on Twitter @KnownAsJeff and check out more podcasts with a Blindness perspective on the web at www.BlindAbilities.com.   And remember: Consult a physician before performing this or any exercise program. This is especially important if you or your family have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, and to determine whether to perform or adapt any of the exercises  in this Focus on Fitness episode. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. If you start to feel any pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately  and contact your doctor or health care professional.   Thanks for listening! Episode Web Site

FocusOnFitness is a series of basic exercises you can do in your house, in the dorm or during a short break. Using the natural surrounding without having to find the right equipment, the best gym or the perfect time to do a little workout. Focus on Fitness is all about doing it when you can and hey, why not? Maria Johnson, aka Girl Gone Blind, joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to Focus on Fitness and how you can incorporate little nuggets of exercise without throwing your schedule off and being able to work out within your own time and space. In this episode, #4 of 7, of the Focus on Fitness series, Maria and Jeff introduce us to the Windmill. This is a full core exercise and is something you can use to get a good stretch to the legs, hips, back from a standing position or from a sitting position.  By holding your arms straight out from side to side and reaching across towards your opposite toes. Then back again and repeat on the other side. Slow and steady goes a long way with this Windmill stretch and can become an exercise when done in repetition. Check out  some more Focus on Fitness episodes and if you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to let us know. You can find Maria on Twitter @Girl_Gone_Blind and follow her blog on the web at GirlGoneBlind.com.. You can find Jeff on Twitter @KnownAsJeff and check out more podcasts with a Blindness perspective on the web at www.BlindAbilities.com.   Core exercises: Why you should strengthen your core muscles You know core exercises are good for you — but do you include core exercises in your fitness routine? Here's why you should. By Mayo Clinic   And remember: Consult a physician before performing this or any exercise program. This is especially important if you or your family have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, and to determine whether to perform or adapt any of the exercises  in this Focus on Fitness episode. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. If you start to feel any pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately  and contact your doctor or health care professional.   Episode Web Site we would love to hear from you! Send us an email at info@BlindAbilities.com or give us a call and leave us some feedback at 612-367-6093

FocusOnFitness is a series of basic exercises you can do in your house, in the dorm or during a short break. Using the natural surrounding without having to find the right equipment, the best gym or the perfect time to do a little workout. Focus on Fitness is all about doing it when you can and hey, why not? Maria Johnson, aka Girl Gone Blind, joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to Focus on Fitness and how you can incorporate little nuggets of exercise without throwing your schedule off and being able to work out within your own time and space. In episode #3 of 7, of the Focus on Fitness series, Maria and Jeff talk to  us about Walking. Whether using a guide with a tether or on the treadmill, walking is one of the best exercises available. Making a walking routine part of your weekly schedule is one of the best choices one can make when it comes to your heart, your lungs and it can really be a good time to converse and even take in a good audio book. That is, if you are on a treadmill.   Check out all of the  Focus on Fitness episodes and if you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to let us know. You can find Maria on Twitter @Girl_Gone_Blind and follow her blog on the web at GirlGoneBlind.com.. You can find Jeff on Twitter @KnownAsJeff and check out more podcasts with a Blindness perspective on the web at www.BlindAbilities.com.   Core exercises: Why you should strengthen your core muscles You know core exercises are good for you — but do you include core exercises in your fitness routine? Here's why you should. By Mayo Clinic    And remember: Consult a physician before performing this or any exercise program. This is especially important if you or your family have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, and to determine whether to perform or adapt any of the exercises  in this Focus on Fitness episode. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. If you start to feel any pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately  and contact your doctor or health care professional.   Thanks for listening! Episode Web Site we would love to hear from you! Send us an email at info@BlindAbilities.com or give us a call and leave us some feedback at 612-367-6093

FocusOnFitness is a series of basic exercises you can do in your house, in the dorm or during a short break. Using the natural surrounding without having to find the right equipment, the best gym or the perfect time to do a little workout. Focus on Fitness is all about doing it when you can and hey, why not? Maria Johnson, aka Girl Gone Blind, joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to Focus on Fitness and how you can incorporate little nuggets of exercise without throwing your schedule off and being able to work out within your own time and space. In episode #2 of 7, of the Focus on Fitness series, Maria and Jeff introduce us to Squats. This is where you lower your hips from a standing position and then stand back up. Maria and Jeff want you to be safe and suggest hanging onto a stable fixture when exploring the movement of a Squat.  This is to give you an idea of the motion that a Squat consists of and to give you a sense of the group of muscles involved.   Check out  some more Focus on Fitness episodes and if you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to let us know. You can find Maria on Twitter @Girl_Gone_Blind and follow her blog on the web at GirlGoneBlind.com.. You can find Jeff on Twitter @KnownAsJeff and check out more podcasts with a Blindness perspective on the web at www.BlindAbilities.com.   Core exercises: Why you should strengthen your core muscles You know core exercises are good for you — but do you include core exercises in your fitness routine? Here's why you should. By Mayo Clinic   7 Health Benefits of Plank Exercises (+5 Plank Variations You Should Know)    And remember: Consult a physician before performing this or any exercise program. This is especially important if you or your family have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, and to determine whether to perform or adapt any of the exercises  in this Focus on Fitness episode. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. If you start to feel any pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately  and contact your doctor or health care professional.   Thanks for listening! Episode Web Site we would love to hear from you! Send us an email at info@BlindAbilities.com or give us a call and leave us some feedback at 612-367-6093

FocusOnFitness is a series of basic exercises you can do in your house, in the dorm or during a short break. Using the natural surrounding without having to find the right equipment, the best gym or the perfect time to do a little workout. Focus on Fitness is all about doing it when you can and hey, why not? Maria Johnson, aka Girl Gone Blind, joins Jeff Thompson in the Blind Abilities Studio to Focus on Fitness and how you can incorporate little nuggets of exercise without throwing your schedule off and being able to work out within your own time and space. In this episode, #1 of 7, of the Focus on Fitness series, Maria and Jeff introduce us to the Plank. This is a full core exercise and is something you can build upon over time. Take your time and feel the entire body come together to keep that plank position steady and strong. Start with 10 seconds, drop to the knees if need be, it all counts. Check out  some more Focus on Fitness episodes and if you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to let us know. You can find Maria on Twitter @Girl_Gone_Blind and follow her blog on the web at GirlGoneBlind.com.. You can find Jeff on Twitter @KnownAsJeff and check out more podcasts with a Blindness perspective on the web at www.BlindAbilities.com.   Core exercises: Why you should strengthen your core muscles You know core exercises are good for you — but do you include core exercises in your fitness routine? Here's why you should. By Mayo Clinic   7 Health Benefits of Plank Exercises (+5 Plank Variations You Should Know)    And remember: Consult a physician before performing this or any exercise program. This is especially important if you or your family have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes. It is your responsibility to evaluate your own medical and physical condition, and to determine whether to perform or adapt any of the exercises  in this Focus on Fitness episode. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. If you start to feel any pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately  and contact your doctor or health care professional.   Thanks for listening! Episode Web Site we would love to hear from you! Send us an email at info@BlindAbilities.com or give us a call and leave us some feedback at 612-367-6093  

Today's episode is part of a series recorded live at the Catholic Market Network conference in Schaumburg, Illinois. Author Susan Bellavance joins Lisa Hendey and Maria Johnson to discuss writing children's stories with a catechetical twist. Links for this episode: Susan Joy Bellavance's website The Light of Christmas Morning

In today's episode, recorded live at the Catholic Marketing Network, Lisa Hendey and Maria Johnson welcome Marcia Lane-McGee, the co-author of Fat Luther, Slim Pickin's: A Black Catholic Celebration of Faith, Tradition, and Diversity. Marcia Lane-McGee is the cohost of the Plaid Skirts and Basic Black podcast and a family teacher at Mooseheart Child City and School. She is a founding member, executive board member, and secretary of Catholics United for Black Lives and an executive board member and the vice president of New Wave Feminists.  Links: Fat Luther, Slim Pickin's: A Black Catholic Celebration of Faith, Tradition, and Diversity Plaid Skirts and Basic Black podcast

Lisa Hendey, Maria Johnson and Allison Gingras talk about all things Advent, inspired by Lisa's new devotional 5-Minute Prayers Around the Advent Wreath (Ave Maria Press). From family traditions to moments when we feel like we're falling short, we're keeping it real about why Advent matters and how to make time for this sacred season.  Show Notes Links:  Advent Resources at Catholic Mom  5-Minute Prayers Around the Advent Wreath  Free Advent Wreath resources at Ave Maria Press