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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

• What does real forgiveness actually require, and why isn't "forgive and forget" a Christian idea at all?
• Why does it bother you so much more when your spouse or your kid does the exact thing you secretly do too?
• Is it even possible to forgive someone who never asks for it, or who's no longer in your life to ask?

In episode 106 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna Millea break down forgiveness, starting with a surprising fact: nowhere in the Gospels does anyone ever ask Jesus for forgiveness point-blank, and yet he forgives constantly. That single detail unlocks the idea at the center of this episode, unilateral forgiveness, the practice of forgiving before someone asks, apologizes, or even realizes they hurt you.

They start with a simple, clarifying definition of forgiveness as canceling a debt, not forgetting it ever happened, then work through what scripture and C.S. Lewis have to say about why forgiveness might be the most disobeyed commandment in Christianity. Kenna introduces a concept from her spiritual director called empathetic repentance, the idea that what actually costs you your peace isn't what the other person did, it's the seed of that same thing already in you.

They close with a real answer to one of the hardest versions of this question: how do you forgive someone who's died, or someone you're no longer in contact with, when you'll never get to tell them?

This episode is for anyone still waiting on an apology that may never come, or anyone who's realized that holding out for one is quietly costing them their own peace.

Episode 106 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Larry Christensen's sermon on Unilateral Forgiveness

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Cold Open
• (00:43) - Welcome and What's Harder to Forgive: A Game
• (13:09) - Highs and Hards: A Notre Dame Anniversary Trip
• (18:19) - Defining Forgiveness: The IOU You Tear Up
• (23:36) - What Scripture and C.S. Lewis Say About Forgiveness
• (40:41) - Empathetic Repentance: Why Their Sin Bothers You So Much
• (49:38) - Unilateral Forgiveness: What Jesus Actually Modeled
• (57:22) - Challenge by Choice and Closing Prayer

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

But Will Johnson lived to tell the tale.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

• What does it actually take to survive the "fog of war" years of early parenthood without losing yourself or your marriage?
• Why might letting go of your own standards, like a spotless house or a specific parenting method, be the healthiest thing you can do for your family?
• What's the one practice Pat and Kenna almost let slip that ended up holding their marriage together?

In episode 105 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna Millea open up their playbook for surviving, and even thriving, in the trenches of early parenthood. Drawing on their own experience raising seven kids, they talk honestly about the season a friend once called "the fog of war," the disorienting, sleep deprived stretch where you can't seem to get your head above water.

From there, they walk through seven hard won practicals: holding firm to your values when everything feels chaotic, finding your own family's "clean spectrum," knowing when to take advice and when to let it roll off your back, outsourcing what you can without guilt, and protecting the handful of moments each day that actually shape your family's culture.

They close with the two habits that quietly hold their marriage together in the middle of it all: going on dates, and praying together daily, even when it's just a Hail Mary before falling asleep.

This episode is for anyone in the thick of parenting little kids who has wondered if they're doing it right, or anyone who remembers that season and wants to look back on it with a little more grace.

Episode 105 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Cold Open
• (00:38) - Welcome, Lightning Round, and Highs and Hards
• (17:39) - The Fog of War: Why Early Parenthood Feels Like Survival
• (21:05) - Practical 1: Clarify and Hold Your Values
• (25:30) - Practicals 2 and 3: Finding Your Clean Spectrum and Filtering Advice
• (38:39) - Practicals 4 and 5: Outsourcing and Protecting High-Impact Moments
• (47:10) - Practicals 6 and 7: Dates, Prayer, and Staying Connected
• (53:12) - Challenge by Choice and Closing Prayer

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Trust us... Kenna knows. 😂

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

• What's the real difference between failing at something and believing you are a failure?
• Why does the world have a vested interest in convincing you your worth is something you have to go earn?
• What happens when you build your identity on your mission instead of on your relationship with God?

In episode 104 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna Millea sit with a truth most of us know in our heads but rarely trust in our hearts: you are good, not because of what you do, but because of who made you. Kenna opens up about a moment in spiritual direction that cracked something open for her, realizing that failing has to do with her actions, but shame goes deeper, straight to her sense of being.

They walk through a simple framework from their own spiritual direction called RIM: relationship, identity, and mission, moving clockwise like the rim of a bowl. Relationship with God comes first, identity flows from that relationship, and mission flows from identity. Most of us live it backwards, chasing our mission first and letting our performance tell us who we are, which is exactly how one bad meeting, one lost client, or one hard parenting moment convinces us we're worthless.

Pat shares a story from his years in youth ministry about a student whose entire identity was wrapped up in sports, and what happened to that identity the moment a torn ACL took the sport away. They also get into the difference between true humility and the "fishing for compliments" version so many Christians default to, and close with two of their favorite lines on identity, one from Aslan in Prince Caspian, and one from a fifth century doctor of the church named Peter Chrysologus.

Episode 104 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

• (00:00) - Cold Open
• (00:47) - Welcome Back and Today's Topic
• (01:20) - The Good or Bad Game
• (07:01) - Highs and Hards
• (13:09) - Failing vs. Feeling Shame
• (15:26) - The World's Vested Interest in Your Insecurity
• (19:02) - The Athlete Who Lost His Identity
• (25:00) - Introducing the RIM Framework
• (28:05) - Living It Backwards
• (34:57) - Why We'd Rather Hustle Than Rest
• (41:15) - Holding Sin and Goodness Together
• (45:13) - Two Closing Quotes on Identity
• (48:38) - Closing Prayer

Links and Resources:

• Prince Caspian by C.S. Lewis
• St. Peter Chrysologus (Catholic Encyclopedia)
• Catholic Heart Work Camp

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

How were Pat & Kenna struck by the lightning bolt of romance? It all started with a subpar early 2000s rom com...

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What does it actually look like to be addicted to the hustle and not even realize it?

How does staying perpetually busy become a coping strategy for the deeper questions we are afraid to sit with?

What if the solution to your busyness is not better time management, but a ruthless commitment to doing less?

In episode 103 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna Millea get honest about their own addiction to hustle. Drawing on John Mark Comer's The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, they explore why so many of us cannot seem to slow down, and what our busyness is really covering up.

They dig into the spiritual roots of hurry, why John Mark Comer calls it the greatest threat to the interior life, and how the Catholic social tradition has been telling us for over a century that work was made for man, not the other way around. Kenna shares a moment from her own therapy that reframed everything: the possibility that her anxiety has been masking depression all along, and that staying busy is the most productive-looking way to avoid sitting with the hard questions of the human experience. Pat gets equally honest about the cost of hurry in his own fatherhood, admitting that far too often he is yelling at his kids not because of what they are doing, but because he is in a hurry and their seven-year-old slowness is incompatible with his schedule.

They close with four practical S's from Comer's book: silence and solitude, Sabbath, simplicity, and slowing. The challenge is to pick just one and try it for a week.

This episode is for anyone who has answered "how are you doing?" with "so busy" and quietly wondered why that answer feels both true and empty at the same time.

Chapters:

•  (00:00) - Cold Open
•  (00:37) - Welcome and Episode Intro
•  (01:47) - Lightning Round: 90 Seconds with Kenna
•  (09:39) - Highs and Hards
•  (16:07) - Why We Might Be the Worst People to Host This Episode
•  (17:46) - The Spiritual Roots of Busyness
•  (21:41) - The Mental and Emotional Cost of Hurry
•  (34:12) - Busyness as a Coping Strategy
•  (42:47) - The Louis C.K. Conan Clip and Joy Antibodies
•  (47:29) - Four Ways to Fight Back: The Four S's
•  (54:00) - Challenge by Choice
•  (54:55) - Closing Prayer

Episode 103 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Links and Resources:

• The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
• Louis C.K. on Conan: Everything's Amazing and Nobody's Happy (language warning, do not watch with kids)

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Paul & Rachel Balducci share a story of heartache and hope that you need to hear, no matter how old your kids are.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

• What does it actually look like to raise boys into men of faith and character?
• How do you stay united as parents when the chaos of a house full of boys threatens to divide you?
• What do you do when your sons walk away from the faith, and how do you hold on to hope?

In episode 102 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna Millea sit down with Paul and Rachel Balducci, parents of five sons and one daughter, for a conversation about what it really takes to raise boys well. Paul is an immigration attorney and Rachel is an author, journalist, and co-host of The Gist on Catholic TV. Together they have 32 years of marriage and a lot of hard-won wisdom to share.

They talk honestly about what the early years looked like with four boys under five, the exhaustion Rachel carried as a stay-at-home mom, and how Paul's quiet steadiness became one of the greatest gifts he gave his sons. They dig into the difference between parenting from fear and parenting from a secure identity in God, and why that shift changes everything.

Paul shares one of the most moving moments in the episode: the story of how a small Wednesday night dinner group, built on nothing more than a meal and a short video, led to a full-scale revival among a group of young men who had stopped going to Mass. It is a story about patience, trust, and what happens when parents refuse to give up.

Rachel offers something equally honest for the moms: you cannot pour from a place of anxiety, you have to learn to let go, trust the Holy Spirit, and love your kids exactly where they are.

This episode is for every parent who has wondered whether they are doing enough, and every mom or dad who needs to hear that God loves your kids far more than you ever could.

Rachel Balducci is a cohost of The Gist, a talk show for women on CatholicTV, and teaches journalism at Augusta University. She is the author of Make My Life Simple: Bringing Peace to Heart and Home and How Do You Tuck in a Superhero and Other Delightful Mysteries of Raising Boys. Paul Balducci is an attorney who specializes in immigration and naturalization law. Paul & Rachel have been married for 32 years, live in Georgia, and have five “strapping” sons and one “precious” daughter.

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

• (00:37) - Welcome and guest introductions
• (02:15) - Highs and Hards
• (10:15) - How Paul and Rachel met and discerned marriage
• (17:46) - What life actually looked like with a house full of boys
• (26:35) - Raising sons: vision, modeling, and masculine genius
• (35:11) - What your sons need from you as they grow up
• (47:27) - Avoiding the trap of over-critical parenting
• (54:25) - When your sons walk away from the faith
• (59:52) - Challenge by choice
• (01:01:26) - Closing prayer

Links and Resources:

• Rachel Balducci - https://rachelbalducci.com/
• Rachel on Instagram: @rachelbalducci
• Rachel Balducci on Catholic TV: The Gist - https://www.catholictv.org/the-gist.html
• Make My Life Simple: Bringing Peace to Heart and Home by Rachel Balducci - https://a.co/d/036UJ4LT
• How Do You Tuck in a Superhero? by Rachel Balducci - https://a.co/d/03Flj5LR

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Especially when tacos are involved.

Vonda Tiede, LMFT tells her side of the story.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

• Why do so many couples wait years before finally seeking help?
• What actually happens in the therapy room, and what is the therapist really doing?
• Are there situations where couples therapy can do more harm than good?

Couples therapy is one of the most misunderstood tools in marriage. People assume it means something's broken, that the therapist will pick a side, or that it's too late. None of that is true.

In this episode, Kenna sits down with two trusted colleagues and fellow licensed marriage and family therapists, Ben Baker and Vonda Tiede, for an honest, behind-the-curtain conversation about what couples therapy actually looks like, who it's for, and what gets in the way of people starting sooner.

They cover the myths that keep couples stuck, the difference between a disagreement and a full-blown fight, what "containment" really means in the therapy room, and the specific situations where couples therapy is actually contraindicated. They also share the one thing they each wish every couple knew before they ever walked through the door.

Whether you're considering couples therapy, currently in it, or just curious what happens in that room, this episode will give you real answers, not vague reassurances.

Chapters

• (00:00) - "Your marriage is my client"
• (00:28) - Welcome and guest introductions
• (02:14) - Highs and Hards
• (08:25) - Why couples therapy feels so mysterious
• (09:35) - How Ben and Vonda chose marriage and family therapy
• (14:01) - Individual therapy vs. couples therapy
• (18:38) - Myths and misconceptions therapists want to dispel
• (33:56) - When to come and when to wait
• (52:18) - The one thing each therapist wishes every couple knew
• (58:03) - Challenge by choice
• (01:00:27) - Closing prayer

Reflection Questions

Links and Resources:

• Martin Center for Integration - https://martincenterforintegration.com
• Vonda Tiede, LMFT - https://www.vondatiede.com/
• Related episodes with Ben Baker: Men and Mental Health, Men in Relationships, Triangulation - https://martincenterforintegration.com/show-notes-70
• Related episodes with Vonda Tiede: Marital Intimacy, What Happens in Individual Therapy - https://martincenterforintegration.com/show-notes-21

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

You think your family dinners are out of control? You're not alone.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

• Why do so many couples want to pray together but never actually do it?
• What do you do when you feel too vulnerable, too proud, or too far apart to pray?
• Is there a method that works, even for couples who have never prayed out loud together?

In episode 100 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna Millea take on a topic that listeners have been asking for: how to actually pray together as a couple. Not in theory. Not with a polished formula. But honestly, practically, and in a way that fits real married life with kids, conflict, busy schedules, and the kind of exhaustion that makes even good intentions fall apart.

They dig into why married prayer is so uniquely powerful, including what it means that no one knows your spouse like God does, and why that matters most when things are hard between you. They unpack the difference between rote prayer and spontaneous prayer, and why both have a place in a marriage. And they walk through a specific method of praying together, taught by a priest named Father Scott Traynor, that is accessible, intimate, and surprisingly doable, even for couples who feel completely out of their depth.

Then, to mark the milestone of episode 100, they actually do it. Pat and Kenna pray the Traynor method together, on air, for real, in what may be the most vulnerable and honest moment the show has ever aired.

This episode is for every couple who has wanted to pray together but did not know where to start.

Episode 100 Show Notes (including a downloadable guide to the Traynor married prayer method)

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

• (00:40) — Welcome and episode 100 celebration
• (01:47) — States trivia game
• (14:15) — Why married prayer matters
• (22:00) — The gifts of praying together as a couple
• (33:30) — Praying before conflict: the hardest and most humbling move
• (43:50) — Getting practical: how to start
• (46:50) — The Traynor Method explained
• (52:00) — Pat and Kenna pray the Traynor Method 

Links and Resources:

• The Parish as a School of Prayer by Father Scott Traynor

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Don't miss this harrowing tale of escape, invisibility, and survival from Dr. Julia Sadusky 🫎😱

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

• Why do so many well-meaning Catholic parents freeze when it comes to talking to their kids about sex?
• What do you actually say when your child comes home asking about their classmate’s parents?
• How do you talk to your kids about pornography before they encounter it?

In episode 99 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna welcome back Dr. Julia Sadusky, licensed clinical psychologist, author, and one of the most trusted Catholic voices in the space of sexual formation. Julia wrote not one but two books to help Catholic parents have these conversations well: one for kids ages zero to nine, and one for teens. This episode is the one your group chat has been needing.

Julia doesn't make this scary or clinical. She walks Pat and Kenna through the common obstacles that stop parents cold, and then gives them real tools. Actual scripts. Practical language for everything from explaining genitalia to a toddler, to responding when your child asks why their friend has two dads, to having the pornography conversation before it becomes a crisis.

The goal isn't a perfect talk. The goal is a relationship where your child knows you are the first place they go.

Dr. Julia Sadusky is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, speaker, and adjunct professor based in Littleton, Colorado. Her clinical work and research focus on sexual and gender development and trauma-informed care. She holds a bachelor's from Ave Maria University and a master's degree and doctorate in clinical psychology from Regent University.

Episode 99 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

• (00:47) — Introduction and welcome
• (07:30) — Highs and Hards: life lately
• (11:10) — Why Julia wrote the books
• (16:53) — The biggest obstacles parents face
• (24:09) — Why your child's reaction in the moment doesn't measure your success
• (31:34) — It's not one talk — it's a thousand small moments
• (36:20) — What to say when your child asks about two dads
• (43:30) — Talking to your kids about pornography before they encounter it
• (47:59) — A vision of hope for parents
• (50:30) — Challenge by Choice

Links and Resources:

• Start Talking to Your Kids About Sex (Ages 0–9) — Dr. Julia Sadusky
• Start Talking to Your Kids About Sex (Teens) — Dr. Julia Sadusky
• Dr. Julia Sadusky — Website
• Talking With Your Teen About Sex online course

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Especially when it involves someone recently released from prison.

Peter & Debbie Herbeck are back with some hilarious stories of (mis)communication & forgiveness.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

• What does it actually take to keep Christ at the center of a marriage through decades of real life?
• What do you do when one spouse is further ahead in faith than the other?
• How do you build a family culture that passes faith down to the next generation?

In episode 98 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna welcome Peter and Debbie Herbeck, a couple with nearly 40 years of marriage, four children, and 12 grandchildren. Their story is anything but ordinary. Debbie grew up Jewish, came to faith at the University of Michigan, and paid a real price to follow Jesus. Peter came from a Catholic family shaped by both great love and the wounds of an alcoholic home. When they met, they were both already fully committed to the Lord individually, before they ever considered committing to each other.

What followed was a marriage built not on ideal circumstances, but on a shared decision to put Jesus first, even when it was hard, messy, and costly.

In this conversation, Peter and Debbie share the practical rhythms that kept their marriage rooted through busy seasons of parenting and ministry, what they say to couples where one spouse simply isn't on the same page in faith, and how they built a culture of honor in their home that their grandchildren are now carrying forward.

This is the kind of wisdom that only comes from decades of saying yes to the Lord together.

Peter Herbeck is the Vice President and Director of Missions for Renewal Ministries. Debbie Herbeck is the founder and executive director of Be Love Revolution and Pine Hills Girls Camp, and a speaker whose journey from Judaism to the Catholic faith has inspired thousands.
Together they are co-authors of Lessons from the School of Love: Building a Christ-Centered Marriage.

Episode 98 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

• (01:27) - Introduction and welcome
• (07:30) - Highs & Hards: life lately
• (09:40) - How Peter and Debbie met
• (18:30) - Blending two very different backgrounds in marriage
• (26:30) - Keeping Christ at the center: practical rhythms
• (39:30) - When one spouse is trailing behind in faith
• (50:30) - The culture of honor in your home
• (58:55) - Challenge By Choice

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Who knew those words might have been the ones to save her baby's life?

Listen in to this moving story from St. Faustina Maria Pia!

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

- Why is it so hard to trust God?
- What does it mean to say “yes” when life doesn’t make sense?
- How do we trust God in suffering, uncertainty, and silence?

In episode 97 of This Whole Life, Kenna and Pat are joined by Sister Faustina Maria Pia, S.V. of the Sisters of Life to explore one of the most important and challenging aspects of the spiritual life: trust.

Drawing from her personal story, Sister Faustina shares how a season of suffering and spiritual dryness led to a profound encounter with Jesus that changed everything. In that moment, she realized that trust is not about understanding our circumstances, but about entrusting ourselves to a Person.

Together, they unpack the deeper meaning of trust, the fear of vulnerability, and the struggle to believe that we are truly loved. The conversation also explores how trust impacts our relationships, our prayer life, and our ability to live fully in the present moment.

Whether you are in a season of clarity or confusion, this episode offers a powerful invitation to stop striving for control and begin surrendering to the love of God.

Sister Faustina Maria Pia, S.V. currently resides in New York and serves as the local superior of Annunciation Motherhouse.  Several years ago, in her own struggle to trust the Lord, she received an inspiration to compose a prayer, the Litany of Trust, and subsequently authored a book entitled, Jesus I trust in You, a 30 day retreat with the Litany of Trust.

Episode 97 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters

•  (01:30) - Introduction and welcome
•  (06:30) - Highs & Hards: life lately
•  (10:30) - Introducing the topic of trust
•  (18:45) - Sister Faustina’s background and vocation story
•  (27:30) - Encounter with Jesus in suffering
•  (33:30) - Writing the Litany of Trust
•  (40:00) - Why vulnerability and trust are difficult
•  (48:00) - Trusting God vs trusting others
•  (55:30) - Living in the present moment with God
•  (01:01:30) - Challenge By Choice
•  (01:03:00) - The Litany of Trust (prayer)

Links and Resources:

• Litany of Trust – Sister Faustina Maria Pia
• Jesus, I Trust in You: A 30-Day Retreat with the Litany of Trust
• Sisters of Life
  https://sistersoflife.org/
• This Whole Life Podcast Website
   https://thiswholelifepodcast.com

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Kenna brings stories of her two grandmothers in this heartfelt storytellers episode!

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Addy Diaz returns to This Whole Life to share a hilarious story of gaming, shame, and vulnerability. Listen in!

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What do I do when I feel like giving up?
Is God present even when things feel hopeless?
Is it up to me to solve the problems in the world around me?

In Episode 93 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna tackle the challenge of staying sane and spiritually grounded in a world that feels increasingly divided, chaotic, and hopeless. The episode delves into the heavy realities facing our local communities and the broader world—addressing violence, division, and the toll of recent tragedies. Drawing on their backgrounds in faith, therapy, and family life, Pat and Kenna explore the tension between seeking justice and maintaining inner peace, as well as the struggle to trust and engage one another amid strong differences. They offer practical reflections on discerning what is in our control, the importance of empathy, and finding peace rooted in relationship with God rather than public approval. Join them for honest conversation, vulnerability, and encouragement to anchor your sanity—and search for sanctity—in turbulent times.

Episode 93 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters: 

0:00: Introduction & Olympic game
13:11: Highs & Hards
21:07: Why are things so hard?
30:09: Peace lies between resentment & disengaging
37:23: What is in my control and what isn't?
45:48: Rejecting the pull to seek others' approval
53:07: Challenge By Choice

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Where is he sitting?

Where are you sitting?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What is anxiety, really?
How do I process my anxiety when it's not helpful?
Seriously - thanking God for my anxiety?

In this episode of This Whole Life, Kenna and Pat welcome licensed professional counselor Catherine DiNuzzo for a deep dive into anxiety—what it is, why it happens, and how to manage it. Catherine DiNuzzo shares her insights on the biology of anxiety, her work with clients, and the importance of approaching anxiety with self-compassion rather than fear (or more anxiety). The discussion covers the reasons that God built anxiety into our experience, practical strategies for managing anxiety, and how parents can support anxious children. Highlights include Catherine DiNuzzo’s perspective on thanking God for anxiety, grounding techniques, and the ways the Catholic faith naturally integrates mental wellness. With relatable stories and actionable advice, this episode offers hope, empathy, and spiritual wisdom for anyone looking to find peace amidst the struggles of modern life. And yes, you'll even thank God for your anxiety.

Catherine DiNuzzo, MA, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice, who also operates Sacred Heart Mental Wellness. Catherine earned her Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Services from the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs. Prior to her private practice, Catherine worked for several years in both schools and in agency counseling, especially with Veterans. She has spoken internationally and with many Catholic events & organizations on the topic of mental wellness.

Catherine and her husband, Dave, live in a small rural town in the middle of Kansas with their four amazing children.

Episode 92 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
14:02: Why did that make me anxious?
21:55: What is (and isn't) anxiety?
28:06: What causes anxiety?
34:44: But the Bible says to NOT be anxious...
41:30: How do I calm unnecessary anxiety?
48:34: Helping our kids with their anxiety
52:37: Challenge By Choice

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Dr. Anthony Isacco shares his humble insights into the quietly holy work of psychological assessments in the process of discernment.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Is it a sin to be depression?
Is depression really able to be treated and healed?
How can I help my loved one who is suffering with depression?

In the first ever episode of "This Whole Life" recorded in front of a LIVE audience, Pat is joined by Dr. Anthony Isacco to dive into the realities of depression—what it is, how it affects individuals and families, and its complex relationship with faith. The conversation explores common misconceptions, clinical symptoms, and ways to distinguish normal sadness from major depressive disorder. Listeners will find hope as Dr. Isacco shares evidence-based approaches for healing, emphasizing the power of behavioral activation, social connection, and integrated spiritual practices. Full of relatable anecdotes and practical advice, the episode stresses that depression is treatable and offers tangible steps for listeners to support themselves or loved ones. Whether you’re seeking understanding as a parent, friend, or clinician, this episode delivers empathy, science, and faith in one thoughtful package.

Anthony Isacco, PhD is program director, professor, and head of clinical research in the new MS in clinical psychology program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. He is a licensed psychologist and is the principal of a small private practice focused on helping clergy, seminarians, and women religious live healthy, holy, and happy lives in their vocations. He is a graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville (BA), Boston College (MA), and Loyola University of Chicago (PhD). Dr. Isacco lives in Pittsburgh, PA with his wife and four daughters.

Episode 91 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
11:13: Understanding depression
19:46: The relationship between depression & faith
26:36: Is it a sin to be depressed?
36:51: Suggestions for someone who is depressed
43:14: Early signs of depression
50:45: Challenge By Choice

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Beth Hlabse joins us for this edition of Storytellers and a glimpse of the grandeur, quiet, and beauty of her childhood home.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

How can I better support my loved one who suffers with mental illness?
What is the Church's place in caring for those with mental illnesses?
Is it possible to choose my responses instead of just reacting?

In episode 90, Kenna & Pat welcome Beth Hlabse, program director of the Fiat Program on Faith and Mental Health at the University of Notre Dame, for an honest conversation about loving and supporting people with mental illness. Drawing on personal stories, professional expertise, and Catholic teaching, the episode explores the complexities of mental health through the lens of accompaniment, compassion, and community. Beth shares practical wisdom for churches and families, highlighting the importance of seeing the gifts and goodness of every person beyond their diagnosis, setting healthy boundaries, and moving from reactive to responsive support. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own biases and discomfort, discovering pathways to deeper empathy, hope, and belonging—especially in faith communities. Whether you’re walking this journey yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode offers encouragement and tangible steps toward stronger, more healing connections.

Beth Hlabse is the program director for the Fiat Program on Faith and Mental Health at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame. As a mental health counselor, Beth has provided therapeutic care for adolescents and adults with histories of trauma and adverse child experiences. Beth graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2011 and she obtained her masters in clinical mental health counseling from Divine Mercy University. Beth and her husband Pete live in South Bend, Indiana.

Episode 90 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
18:40: Acknowledging my past to inform my future
29:00: Loving others in the midst of mental illness
42:07: Isolation: a cause and effect of mental illness
54:03: Healthy boundaries in relationship with others with mental illness
59:01: Challenge By Choice

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Mike & Alicia Hernon of the Messy Family Project share the story of their friendship, dating, and discernment with loads of wisdom for anyone at any stage of their vocation journey.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Why do my spouse and I fight over such trivial things?
How can we be more connected in our marriage?
How do we create a vision of hope for our family?

In episode 89 of This Whole Life, hosts Kenna & Pat Millea welcome Mike & Alicia Hernon, founders of the Messy Family Project. Together, they dive deep into the importance of building a shared vision for marriage and family, exploring the transformative power of intentionality in daily life. The Hernons share candid stories from parenting ten children and offer insights into their Family Board Meeting — a practical tool for couples to step back from the daily grind and realign on what truly matters. From handling sibling conflict to fostering lifelong bonds within the family, the conversation balances vulnerability, laughter, and actionable wisdom. Listeners will learn how vision shapes family culture, hear guidance for spouses who bristle against setting a family vision, and find inspiration to move beyond survival mode toward thriving family life. Tune in for heartfelt advice, hope, and encouragement from two couples passionate about faith and family.

Mike & Alicia Hernon are co-founders of the Messy Family Project, a ministry dedicated to empowering moms and dads to embrace their sacred calling. Before launching the ministry, Mike was Vice President of Advancement at Franciscan University and host of Franciscan University Presents on EWTN. He holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Theology and a Master’s in Business Administration. Alicia has a degree in Education and is the founder of Mary Seat of Wisdom Classical Community.

Parents of ten children and grandparents to eight, the Hernons have made their home in Steubenville, OH for the past 30 years.

Episode 89 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
12:42: Setting a vision for your family
23:31: Hopes for the future to impact the present
32:26: The Family Board Meeting
43:50: What if one spouse doesn't want to do a Family Board Meeting?
55:12: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. Do you have a vision for your family? Can you and your spouse both articulate that vision to your children & others?
3. What daily issues are most likely to get you stuck in the urgent instead of the important?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Especially when there's a literal fork in the road.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What is wrong with me that I feel so overwhelmed sometimes?
Why do I freeze up and struggle to process stress?
How can I get back to my authentic self and respond instead of react?

In Episode 88 of This Whole Life, Pat & Kenna dive deep into the concept of the “Window of Tolerance” — a foundational model for understanding emotional regulation and navigating stress. Blending faith and mental health insights, they explore how our window of tolerance shapes daily reactions, especially during times of stress or change. Kenna breaks down Dr. Dan Siegel’s model, describing the differences between living within and outside our window, and offering practical strategies for getting back to our authentic self. The hosts share personal stories about family, parenting, and marriage, making the science relatable for listeners. They discuss how to expand your window, respond with compassion (to self and others), and why reflecting on your patterns is a game-changer. Perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed and seeking practical, soul-nourishing ways to regain balance, this episode is both insightful and encouraging.

Episode 88 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
12:38: What is the Window of Tolerance?
22:55: The place of authentic choices & actions
30:36: Getting back in my Window of Tolerance
38:22: Growing in resilience & expanding my Window
52:56: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What do you think of the Window of Tolerance model? How do you see it in your life?
3. What pushes you out of your Window? How do you know when you're above or below the Window of Tolerance?
4. How do you get back in your Window when you find yourself outside it?
5. What does God have to say about the moments when you're overwhelmed and outside of your Window of Tolerance?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Even people who are sacramentally vowed to one another.

And sometimes that's really tricky - but pretty funny in retrospect.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Is it really possible to stay sane around the holidays?
What if I have real baggage from past holidays & celebrations?
How do I hold onto my values when the routine is thrown out the window?

In episode 87 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna dive into the highs, hards, and heartfelt moments that come with holidays and celebrations. Together, they explore personal and family traditions, sharing how their values influence everything from birthdays and wedding anniversaries to Easter and Christmas. The discussion goes far beyond surface-level festivities, unpacking how expectations, family dynamics, and even past baggage shape our experience of these moments. You'll hear practical wisdom about communicating needs, honoring boundaries, and keeping faith at the center of every celebration—even in the midst of chaos. Whether it’s prioritizing family, embracing compromise, or creating meaningful new traditions, this episode is full of relatable stories, smiles, and actionable strategies for navigating the busiest—and sometimes hardest—times of the year with both sanity and sanctity.

Episode 87 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Intro & Blind Top 10
15:57: Highs & Hards
22:39: Principles of sane celebrations & holidays
35:56: Concrete approaches to sane celebrations (The Millea Way)
50:48: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What are some of your favorite holiday traditions? Which holidays are most difficult for you?
3. When have you compromised with others about a holiday or celebration? What was that experience like for you?
4. When have you held onto your most central values during a celebration? When have you sacrificed a higher value for the sake of a lower value?
5. How can you identify and communicate your hopes and fears of an upcoming holiday with a loved one? What do you hope they understand about you?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What?!

In this inaugural Storytellers episode of This Whole Life, hear about this University president's story of deleting his email entirely: his reasoning, what he's learned, and what you can gain from his story.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What does it mean to live a beautiful life?
How can I create a Catholic culture in my own life, family, school, or work?
Should I be aiming to create a utopia on earth?

In this insightful episode of This Whole Life, hosts Pat and Kenna sit down with Monsignor James Shea, president of the University of Mary, to explore the deep connection between faith, mental health, and the quest for true integration in everyday life. Monsignor Shea shares personal stories of loss and leadership, reflecting on building an authentic Catholic culture in diverse communities, the challenges and joys of forming young minds, and why embracing imperfections leads us closer to wholeness. The conversation dives into the meaning of integration—both personally and institutionally—and touches on how fragmented lives can be healed through Christ with humility and a spirit of self-giving. With practical encouragement and wisdom, this episode inspires listeners to find beauty, purpose, and unity in the messiness of real life. Perfect for anyone seeking both sanity and sanctity as they walk the journey of faith.

Monsignor James Shea became the sixth president of the University of Mary in 2009. Monsignor Shea grew up on a dairy farm in Hazelton, North Dakota, and has studied at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., the Vatican’s North American College, the University of Chicago, and Harvard.

Episode 85 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
15:22: What does integration mean?
25:53: Creating Catholic culture
40:03: Building a common vision, not a "utopia"
48:29: Msgr. Shea's book recommendation
53:15: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. How do you see the connection between integrity and beauty in your own life?
3. When have you experienced fragmentation or compartmentalization, and how did they stop you from living a fully authentic life?
4. How do you create habits to be fully integrated internally and with others?
5. How can we balance the pursuit of excellence and integration without falling into the trap of perfectionism or utopian thinking?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

How do I acknowledge and communicate my sexual desires & needs?
What do I do when my expectations about sex in marriage are unmet?
Is it possible to keep the spark alive while practicing NFP?

In episode 84, Pat and Kenna welcome Monica & Renzo Ortega for the final installment of their “Holy Sex” series. Together, they dive into the nitty-gritty realities of sex, intimacy, and marriage from a faith-filled, honest perspective. The conversation explores expectations versus reality, navigating communication, vulnerability, and the unique challenges of practicing NFP, whether trying to achieve or avoid pregnancy. The Ortegas share personal stories and offer compassionate advice for couples wrestling with unmet expectations, shame, or the need for deeper connection. This episode is rich with practical wisdom, laughter, and encouragement, inviting couples to have those hard-but-holy conversations and rediscover the gift of authentic intimacy in marriage.

Renzo & Monica Ortega have been married since 2012 and have 5 kids. They facilitate youth and marriage prep ministry for their home parish and they love to talk about all things marriage and family life on their podcast: Two Become Family. They've also co-authored a book entitled Lovemaking: How to talk about sex with your spouse (a guide for everyday Catholics).

Episode 84 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
13:50: A faithful & practical approach to sex
19:39: Expectations vs. Reality in sex
32:06: Challenges with NFP when trying to become pregnant
42:56: What about sex when you're using to NFP to rightly avoid pregnancy?
53:13: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. If you're married, what were your expectations around sex before marriage? How have the played out so far?
3. How has your background or upbringing shaped your views on sex, and how have those views influenced your relationship?
4. How has striving for chastity within marriage challenged or changed your understanding of love and self-gift?
5. What’s one “hard conversation” about intimacy, fertility, or expectations that you’ve been avoiding with your spouse? How might you create space for that discussion?

Support the show

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Why doesn't arousal come as easily as we expected?
How do we make opportunities for intimacy when life is so busy?
How can I have honest conversations with my spouse about arousal and our sex life?

In Episode 83 of This Whole Life, Pat & Kenna are joined by guest Trisha McKeever, LMFT for Part 2 of the "Holy Sex" series, focusing on arousal within marriage. With honesty, humor, and vulnerability, they explore the real-life intricacies of intimacy, including the challenges of noticing, naming, and cultivating arousal amidst the busyness of family life. The conversation breaks down common myths around arousal, embracing the idea that self-awareness and willingness play key roles in developing a healthy sexual relationship. Drawing from clinical practice and Christian principles, they discuss practical steps couples can take to recognize and communicate their needs, address internal and external “blocks,” and honor each other’s differences — whether you’re a “rocket” or an “airplane.” Tune in for relatable stories, expert insights, and actionable advice that will encourage couples to integrate faith, emotional awareness, and authentic connection in the bedroom and beyond.

Trisha McKeever is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Minnesota and has been in private practice for 10 years. She is passionate about incorporating her own Christian beliefs and her perspective as a believer into the healing work that she does with her clients. Trisha also brings the wisdom of 19 years of marriage, and she is the mother of three children.

Episode 83 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
15:01: What does arousal really mean?
24:37: Choosing arousal & openness
30:33: When the brakes get engaged
37:51: Communicating about arousal with my spouse
46:32: Gender differences in arousal & readiness
56:00: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. How do you define “arousal” in the context of your own marriage or relationship?
3. What are some “blocks” or “brakes” that you have experienced in your sexual relationship? How might you begin to address them?
4. Can you think of a time when a small “yes” led to greater intimacy or connection?

Support the show

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Why isn't my sex life going the way I hoped it would?
How do I talk to my spouse about sex after we've gotten into ruts?
Is it possible to have more sex and better sex in our marriage?

In Episode 82 of This Whole Life, Kenna is joined by Vonda Tiede, LMFT and Daniel Merboth to kick off a powerful three-part series on “Holy Sex” in marriage. Together, they dig deep into the “good news” about sex from a faith-filled, psychologically-informed perspective. Through candid conversations, the trio explores the prevalent myths and cultural lies surrounding sex, the harms of "obligation sex", and the importance of mutuality, communication, and healing within intimacy. They highlight how a couple’s sexual relationship reflects God’s creative genius and the need for curiosity and grace—not shame or rigid expectations. With personal stories, practical insights, and a compassionate challenge for listeners to reimagine intimacy, this episode offers hope, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on cultivating joy and connection in marriage. Whether you’re newly married, have been married for years, or want to better support holy marriages, this episode invites you to approach sexuality as a sacred gift of love.

Vonda Tiede is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice in Minnesota. Vonda lives outside the Twin Cities of Minnesota with her husband, and together they have 6 children.

Daniel Merboth is currently pursuing a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy degree at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Daniel lives in Minnesota with his wife and two children.

Episode 82 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
15:17: Falsehood about sex in marriage
26:21: The consequences of "obligation sex"
34:45: Moving from obligation sex to open communication
45:17: It's not just about an orgasm
1:01:50: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. When and how did you learn to communicate about sex? What were you taught about conversations involving sex?
3. What falsehoods and obstacles keep spouses from being joyfully connected in their sex life?
4. What "great news" about sex did you draw from this episode?
5. How can you move toward greater connection and closeness in your emotional and sexual relationships with your spouse?

Support the show

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What if I didn't sign up for the life I have?
What does my life feel so out of control?
Why do I feel trapped in the life I'm leading?

In Episode 81 of This Whole Life, hosts Pat & Kenna Millea dive deep into what it really means to take control of your life — especially when things aren't going the way you thought they would. This episode explores the broader theme of agency: why so many people feel stuck in passive roles and how modern life — through technology, cultural pressures, and even spiritual ideals — can erode our sense of freedom. Packed with personal stories and practical wisdom, Pat and Kenna explore real strategies for reclaiming healthy agency, embracing flexibility, and living an integrated life in faith and mental health. 

This episode also offers some raw reflections on the tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, as well as highlights of their new Figuring It Out course for those seeking meaningful change. Because truly, freedom and agency are especially important when things don't go the way we planned. Join us for this heartfelt and honest conversation.

Episode 81 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Reflection on the tragedy at Annunciation
21:27: Why is agency, or free will, indispensable?
28:41: What causes a lack of agency?
36:36: What does it look like to live with freedom?
49:42: "I have to" & "I should" vs. Choosing
52:48: Announcing the "Figuring It Out" live course
55:30: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. Are there areas of life in which you feel trapped? How do you know?
3. What does it look like to live in healthy freedom? When have you lived in healthy freedom?
4. Are there things in your life that you feel like you "have to" or "should" do instead of actively choosing? What could you do differently?
5. How can you choose to engage with your life in a way that lines up with your values?

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Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Is it possible to fight fair?
How can someone who hates conflict approach it better?
How do you turn conflict into connection? 

In this episode of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna Millea dive deep into the heart of fighting well with the "Four Cs of Conflict." Drawing from real-life family stories, faith, and the practical tools of therapy, they lay out a step-by-step process to approach disagreements in healthier, more meaningful ways. You'll learn how to calm yourself, connect within before reaching out, recommit to the relationship—even in the heat of the moment—and finally address the real issues at hand. Whether it’s a kitchen squabble, challenges in marriage, or tough moments with friends, Pat and Kenna’s blend of humor and vulnerability offer hope and practical wisdom. Plus, they share their favorite “conflict hacks,” and recap why honest conflict can actually draw us closer. Tune in for encouragement, laughs, and a fresh approach to living faith and mental health in everyday difficulties.

Episode 80 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
13:48: Practical approach to conflict
18:00: Is comfort with conflict built in or learned?
21:30: C #1: Calm
26:33: C #2: Connect
30:14: C #3: (re)Commit
37:58: C #4: Content
45:47: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What is your usual approach to conflict? How does it serve you well, and how does it challenge your relationships?
3. Have you experienced moments of conflict bringing your closer to someone? What made the difference?
4. Which of the 4 C's stands out to you? Which C is something you need to work on?
5. What phrase will you use to recommit to moments of conflict in a way that communicates your desire for connection?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Why are so many fathers struggling?
Is it possible for fathers to live peaceful lives today?
How can a man change the world through his identity as a father?

In episode 79 of This Whole Life, Pat Millea sits down with Devin Schadt, founder and executive director of the Fathers of St. Joseph, to dive deep into the challenges and opportunities of Catholic fatherhood. Devin shares his personal journey, including a life-changing experience after his daughter’s health crisis that propelled him to embrace his vocation as a husband and father. The conversation covers topics such as the crisis of fatherhood, overcoming shame, the loneliness men often face, and the power of transformative relationships. Pat and Devin discuss the profound influence fathers have on families, the unique spirituality of St. Joseph, and practical steps men can take to become trustworthy fathers by first becoming trusting sons of God the Father. Fathers - and the people who love them - will walk away with inspiration, practical advice, and a renewed vision for integrating faith, mental health, and the incredible gift of fatherhood.

Devin Schadt is the executive director of the Fathers of St. Joseph, an apostolate that labors for the restoration, redemption, and revitalization of fatherhood. He is the author of over 20 books on fatherhood through the wisdom of St. Joseph, including The Rule: Counsels and Directives for Husbands and Fathers and Custos: Total Consecration Through Saint Joseph. He is a co-host of The Catholic Gentleman podcast. Devin has been married for 30 years and has five daughters, and lives in Iowa.

Episode 79 Show Notes

The Fathers of St. Joseph

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
12:09: Today's fatherhood crisis & opportunity
21:10: The centrality of relationships for fathers
25:55: Why the mission of fatherhood?
35:11: St. Joseph, model of sanity & sanctity
44:21: Overcoming the cycle of shame
52:18: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. How have your experiences with your own father, or your relationship with God the Father, influenced your approach to parenthood or relationships?
3. What are the threats that face fathers today? What are the opportunities for them to impact the world for good?
4. What are some practical steps that fathers and communities can take to combat male loneliness and foster deeper connections among men?
5. How is St. Joseph a truly practical witness of sanity and sanctity in fatherhood?

Support the show

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Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

In episode 78 of This Whole Life, hosts Kenna and Pat Millea welcome Dr. Mario Sacasa, a seasoned marriage and family therapist and host of the Always Hope podcast, for an honest and hope-filled conversation about dating well—both before and after marriage. Together, they explore the true purpose of dating, how couples can continue to date within marriage, and the vital role of curiosity, play, and intentional communication as relationships evolve. Dr. Sacasa shares real-world wisdom on navigating the current dating landscape, avoiding common pitfalls, and building healthy relational patterns that last. The hosts also get personal about the challenges and joys in their own families, offering a blend of practical advice and relatable stories. Don’t miss the candid post-show chat, where more authentic, practical insights emerge about integrating faith, mental health, and investing in love for the long haul.

Mario Sacasa, Ph.D. is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has been in practice for over 15 years. Dr. Sacasa is the host of Always Hope, a podcast providing solutions to life’s challenges that are grounded in faith and psychology. He travels the country offering lectures on dating, marriage, sexuality, and the misunderstood virtue of hope. He is the creator of two online courses: Dating Well, which helps young adults navigate the modern dating scene, and Overcoming Stress and Anxiety, which offers clear guidance for beating stress in life. Dr. Sacasa is married to his wife of 22 years, Kristin, with whom he shares the joy parenting their four sons.  

Episode 78 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
15:57: What's the point of dating?
27:10: The common mistakes of dating
40:04: Mentally healthy dating
50:32: Warning signs for departing from dating
59:15: Challenge By Choice
1:05:42: The after-show!

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What has your experience been with dating? What are the blessings and challenges you've known?
3. How is dating different today than it was 20 years ago? What are the specific hardships and opportunities right now?
4. What makes dating difficult after a couple is married? How can they overcome those difficulties?
5. What do you need to focus on in your dating life right now? What changes will you make?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Is there any way to make parenting less stressful?
What can I do to make our life less chaotic?
How can our family be a little more sane & connected?

Let's face it - parenting in the 21st century is not for the faint of heart. In episode 76 of This Whole Life, Kenna and Pat dive into their top 10 parenting hacks, offering real-life tips for bringing sanity and sanctity to family life. From the “Team Millea" mentality that fosters solidarity to practical routines like weekly family meetings and consistent chore delegation, Kenna and Pat share what actually works for their family of nine. They also discuss navigating finances, the art of doing tomorrow’s prep today, embracing their village, and the power of letting go of comparison. Whether you have one child or many, this episode is packed with hope, encouragement, and actionable tools to help you parent with intention in today’s chaotic world.

Episode 76 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
7:56: Parenting hacks & why we don't identify our kids
10:49: Hack #1: The "Team Millea" Mentality
14:44: Hack #2: Weekly Family Meetings
18:39: Hack #3: Chores for Everyone!
24:48: Hack #4: One-on-One Time
28:55: Hack #5: Do your "tomorrow self" a favor today
32:53: Hack #6: It takes a village
34:57: Hack #7: Get clever about finances
41:08: Hack #8: Being shrewd about food
44:10: Hack #9: Double (or triple/quadruple) dip on activites
46:16: Hack #10: If it doesn't work for you, *Let it go!*
49:27: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What are the things that cause stress, chaos, disagreements, and anxiety in your family?
3. What is one of these "hacks"/suggestions that might help your family function with more joy and peace?
4. What is your vision for parenting & family life?
5. How are your day to day efforts moving toward that vision? How are they moving you away from that vision?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Are youth sports helping or hurting our kids?
Can sports be a healthy way of honoring God?
How can my children and I stay grounded in the midst of their sports?

In Episode 75 of This Whole Life, hosts Pat and Kenna sit down with Super Bowl champion Matt Birk for a lively, honest, and heartfelt conversation about the realities of youth sports today. From hilarious football stories to hard-fought lessons on resilience and parenting, Matt shares his journey as both an elite athlete and a dad navigating the pressures of today’s competitive youth sports culture. Together, they explore the joys and challenges of childhood athletics, the growing professionalization of youth sports, and the importance of keeping play fun and rooted in faith. Whether you’re a parent on the sidelines, a coach, or just a fan of sports and good conversations, this episode is full of wisdom, practical advice, and perspective on how sports can help shape not just athletes, but healthy, resilient human beings—mind, body, and soul.

Matt Birk is a CEO, a fifteen year NFL veteran, and a Super Bowl champion. He played college football at Harvard and graduated with a degree in economics before going on to be drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1998. He played for the Vikings for eleven years and then for the Baltimore Ravens for four years, where he won Super Bowl XLVII. Matt was named the NFL's Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2011 for his accomplishments on and off the field. Since retiring from the NFL in 2013, Matt has been a vocal pro life advocate, he has cofounded a Catholic high school, and authored a book called All Pro Wisdom. He and his wife have eight children.

Episode 75 Show Notes

Find out more about Matt Birk's work and speaking

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
11:45: True stories from an NFL veteran
18:57: The mental challenge of sports
28:22: Faith, sports psychology, and resilience
36:30: The current state of youth sports
45:06: The harms of professionalization and specialization
53:18: Best practices for sports parents
1:05:04: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What have your experiences with sports been?
3. What are the benefits of youth sports? What are the dangers?
4. Why is it so tempting for parents to attach their identity to kids' sports?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Why do I get caught in the middle of arguments in my family?
Why is it so tempting to bring someone else into a tense situation?
How do I break the cycle of being brought into triangles among my family & friends?

In Episode 74 of This Whole Life, Kenna Millea welcomes Ben Baker, LMFT and Addy Diaz for a lively Relationship Roundtable all about “triangulation”—that sneaky dynamic that can pop up in families, friendships, and work relationships alike. The team breaks down what triangulation actually is (spoiler: it’s more common—and human—than you think), how to spot it in real life, and why we’re all tempted to avoid tension by pulling in a third person, habit, or even technology. With honest stories, practical metaphors (think wobbly tables and silent dinners), and plenty of humor, they explore how triangles can sometimes stabilize a relationship—but also block the deeper connection we’re really seeking. Tune in for relatable insights, gentle challenges, and actionable tips on how to recognize, understand, and break out of unhealthy triangles for healthier, more authentic relationships.

Episode 74 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and becoming a therapist
8:32: What is triangulation?
19:48: Triangles are stabilizing - even harmful ones
26:23: How do we recognize triangulation?
33:21: What causes triangles?
44:47: How do I get out of a triangle?
52:55: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. When have you been brought into a triangle? When have you triangulated someone or something else?
3. How does it feel when you've been dragged into a triangle? Why does it feel that way?
4. Why are triangles so stabilizing? When are they healthy and unhealthy?
5. When are you most tempted to triangulate others? How can you get out of triangles when they happen?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Why do I get so hurt by others' actions?
Why is it so hard for me to let things slide?
How can I give people close to me the benefit of the doubt?

In episode 72 of This Whole Life, Kenna and Pat dive into the concept of Positive Sentiment Override, a game-changing mindset for building stronger, more joyful relationships. Kicking things off with some spirited candy rankings for the Easter season, the duo opens with laughter before turning to the more serious - but deeply practical - work of cultivating a positive lens in daily interactions with loved ones. Together, they break down Dr. John Gottman’s research on how seeing the best in others impacts not only our relationships but our own mental health. Together, they share real-life scenarios of how our internal narratives can shape the atmosphere in our homes, grounded in both faith and psychology. Whether you’re looking for ways to make your domestic church into a greater sanctuary or wanting to shake off negativity in your marriage, family, or friendships, this episode is packed with relatable stories, actionable takeaways, and faith-filled encouragement.

Episode 72 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction, Candy Rankings, and Highs & Hards
18:09: What is Positive Sentiment Override?
27:40: What if they're truly doing something wrong?
32:28: How do I know I'm in Negative Sentiment Override?
43:39: Practical situations
50:56: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. When have you enjoyed positive sentiment override with others? When have you been stuck in negative sentiment override?
3. How do you know when you're in a negative space with a loved one? What are the signs?
4. How do you break out of negative sentiment override and think more positively of your loved ones?
5. Why is it so hard to give the people closest to us the benefit of the doubt? What can you do to extend that grace to them?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

How do men connect with others?
What makes it hard for men to have strong marriages & friendships?
What can a man do to create healthier connections with others?

This special episode of This Whole Life is the first "Relationship Roundtable," tackling issues related to human connection and struggles in relationships. Pat Millea is joined by an outstanding panel of guests, including Ben Baker, John Braun, and Andy Norton, who dive into the vital topic of men's relational health. They explore what it looks like when men are truly connected with others—be it their wives, parents, children, friends, or coworkers. The episode unpacks the dynamics of honor, vulnerability, self-reliance, and the often-complicated nature of friendships. From pop culture references to real-life anecdotes, the conversation reveals both the strengths and pitfalls that men often face in relationships. Each guest offers insights from their own experiences, linking them to mental health and the Christian life. With practical steps and spiritual encouragement, they challenge men to take bold steps toward deeper and healthier connections. 

Whether you're a man seeking to improve your relationships or someone who loves one, this episode offers valuable perspectives and encouragement.

Episode 70 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Intro & positive & negative examples of men connecting with others
18:22: When men are in healthy relationship with others
25:30: Self-reliance, withdrawing, & struggles for men in relationships
29:58: The cycle of shame in men
38:21: Relationship goals & reaching out for connection
45:41: Practical ways for men to foster healthy relationships
58:02: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. When men are in healthy relationships, what are they doing well?
3. When men are struggling to be connected to others, what are the pitfalls or temptations?
4. How can men have strong, connected relationships while maintaining a sense of personal competence and strength?
5. Men: How can you reach out to someone for greater connection? Women: How can you support the men in your life with their relationships?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Why is it so hard to listen well to others?
Why am I so pained when others don't listen to me?
Can I become a better & more active listener?

In this episode of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna welcome guest Addy Diaz to explore the art of active listening. Delving into how active listening fosters deeper connections and empathy, Addy shares insights from her experience in clinical counseling and ministry. The discussion highlights the importance of being present and attentive to others' stories, avoiding common pitfalls like bringing conversations back to oneself or offering unsolicited advice. Addy discusses practical "Dos" and "Don'ts", such as eliminating distractions and reflecting feelings and posture, to enhance one's listening skills and connection to others. Through engaging anecdotes and relatable scenarios, this episode emphasizes the transformative power of truly hearing others and provides listeners with tools to become better listeners.

Addy Diaz is a Masters Level Clinician seeking advanced licensure as a Licensed Practicing Clinical Counselor. Addy holds a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. She received her undergraduate degree in Communications from Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD. Addy is passionate about integrating the truths of the Christian faith and the realities of mental health for a holistic understanding of the person. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends, brewing kombucha, gardening, and playing music. 

Episode 69 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
15:28: The transformative power of active listening
24:07: Embracing the levels of personhood
32:36: Listening communicates worth
40:36: Resisting the temptation to minimize
45:43: Advice & Criticism
53:34: Receiving, not educating
57:39: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. On a scale from 1-10, how skilled are you at active listening? Have you become better or worse over time?
3. When have you had an experience of being heard well and with love? What did that mean to you?
4. What is hard about active listening in your relationships? What are the temptations or distractions?
5. What is one way you will work to become a better listener?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

How should a Christian respond to a mental health crisis?
Do priests & bishops know what it's like to struggle with their mental health?
Is it worth it to be open & honest about my struggles?

In this beautifully personal episode, Kenna and Pat are joined by Bishop James Conley, who candidly shares his personal journey through mental health struggles and his path to recovery and wholeness. Bishop Conley opens up about the challenges he faced, including situational PTSD, anxiety, and major depressive disorder, and the transformative power of faith, vulnerability, and honesty. Drawing from his experience, he offers insights into the intersection of faith and mental health, emphasizing the importance of an approach to wellness that serves the whole person. The conversation expands to touch on societal issues such as the role of technology in mental health and the responsibilities of the Church in these areas. Bishop Conley's story serves as a testament to the enduring hope and healing available through faith, community, and professional support. Tune in for an inspiring and enlightening discussion that celebrates the pursuit of wholeness and holiness.

Bishop James Conley has been the bishop of the Diocese of Lincoln, Nebraska since 2012, where his episcopal motto is "cor ad cor loquitur" ("heart speaks to heart"). Bishop Conley was ordained a priest in 1985 and has served at the Vatican and as auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Denver prior to his current assignment. In 2024, he shared A Future With Hope, his pastoral letter on mental health.

Episode 68 Show Notes

A Future With Hope, Bishop Conley's Pastoral Letter on Mental Health

Chapters:

0:00: Introducing Bishop James Conley
7:43: Highs & Hards
18:09: Bishop Conley's mental health journey
35:30: The experience of vulnerability
42:52: Hopeful responses to mental health from the Church
46:44: Daily mental health practices
53:15: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What situations and forces are threats to your mental health? How do you respond to them?
3. What do you take from Bishop Conley's openness about his struggles with mental health? How might you be more open & vulnerable with your loved ones?
4. How do you see the Church and individual Christians responding to mental health crises? Where do you see hope?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Where did we get to this place with regard to gender?
How do I, a Christian, treat people who are gender nonconforming?
What is the relationship between truth and love in real relationships?

In Episode 67, hosts Kenna and Pat engage in a profound & faithful conversation with Dr. Julia Sadusky about gender identity and gender dysphoria. Dr. Sadusky, a licensed clinical psychologist, brings her expertise in psychology, gender, and faith, offering compassionate insights into how parents and individuals can navigate the complex terrain of gender identity with love and truth. This episode delves into the complexities of gender dysphoria, highlighting the real emotional challenges faced by those experiencing it, and provides practical guidance for parents aiming to support their children's gender exploration in a healthy and faith-filled way. Dr. Sadusky also shares her personal journey into this work, illustrating the power of compassion and the importance of presence in moments of suffering. Listeners are invited to examine their own positions and postures, fostering meaningful and empathetic relationships with those navigating gender questions.

Dr. Julia Sadusky is a licensed clinical psychologist and the owner of a private practice in Littleton, CO. She is also an author, consultant, speaker, and adjunct professor. Dr. Sadusky has done extensive research and clinical work in sexual and gender development and specializes in trauma-informed care. She earned a bachelor's degree from Ave Maria University and a master's degree and doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Regent University. She has authored several books around human sexuality, with her most recent two-book series entitled, "Start Talking to Your Kids about Sex: A Practical Guide for Catholics" (Ave Maria Press, 2023) and "Talking with Your Teen about Sex: A Practical Guide for Catholics (Ave Maria Press, 2024). 

Episode 67 Show Notes

Visit Dr. Julia Sadusky's website and check out her books

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
12:57: Defining gender & gender identity
19:34: Gender dysphoria & distress around gender
27:33: Parents facing gender confusion in their children
42:16: Public gender nonconformity & pronouns
54:28: Position vs. Posture
59:49: Navigating gender expression with loved ones
1:10:52: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions: 

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. When have you encountered challenges around gender?
3. How do you balance truth and love in the face of conversations around gender?
4. What comes up in you with conversations around gender?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What is a love language? What is MY love language?
Why is it hard to connect with my spouse?
How do I talk to my spouse about what makes me feel loved?

In this heartwarming episode of This Whole Life, Kenna and Pat explore the concept of love languages, inspired by Gary Chapman's popular book. They dive into how understanding love languages can enhance relationships, especially during the busy, challenging seasons of life. Pat and Kenna share personal anecdotes, discussing their own love languages and how these have influenced their marriage. They break down the five love languages: words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch, and provide insights on how to recognize and appreciate the love languages of significant others, family, and friends. These love languages help each of us to love in the deepest sense, in self-gift for the good of others. Tune in for a mix of playful banter, thoughtful discussion, and practical advice to nurture your most cherished relationships.

Episode 66 Show Notes

Take the online quiz to discover your Love Language!

Download a summary of the Five Love Langauges

Order The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

Chapters:
0:00: Intro Game and Highs & Hards
14:01: Explaining the Love Languages
19:22: Words of Affirmation
24:28: Quality Time
29:44: Receiving Gifts
33:32: Acts of Service
39:20: Physical Touch
49:54: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What is your love language? What is the love language of your spouse or another loved one?
3. How have you felt loved well? What made you feel loved?
4. When have you not felt loved very well? What was happening or not happening?
5. How can you communicate better with your spouse or loved ones about your love language?

Support the show

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Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What is your experience with infertility, in your own life or in a loved one?
3. What is one time that a dream was lost? What did you feel, and how did you respond?
4. What are some of the expectations put upon you by the culture or those in the Church? What do you do when you don't fit those expectations?
5. How can you love & support those living with infertility? If you experience infertility, what do you need from others?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What are the most wonderful things about marriage & parenting? What are the most challenging things about parenting?
3. In what ways can parents balance the tension between helping their children pursue excellence and reminding them of their worth regardless of their accomplishments?
4. What kinds of community and friendship have you sought out in your journey? Where are you most in need of support right now?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. In what ways does embracing vulnerability contribute to healing of mind & soul?
3. Why is community essential in the process of wholeness according to the discussion?
4. What big questions do you reflect on often? What big questions do you tend to avoid?
5. In what ways does the world push us away from the big questions of life? What impact does that have on us, psychologically & spiritually?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What difficulties have you faced around technology & social media in your own life? In your children's lives?
3. What does healthy tech use look like to you? What are your values around technology?
4. What are technology & social media good for? What are the dangers of technology? How can you help your children enjoy the good and avoid the dangers?
5. When you listen to the Holy Spirit, how are you being called to lead your family with regards to technology?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What secular environments do you live or work in? What challenges and opportunities do you find there?
3. When has someone helped you know God's love when you felt unlovable? When have you shown God's love to another?
4. What is the value of acknowledging someone's good desires, even if they're being lived out in unhealthy or sinful ways?
5. Who is one person who you have a hard time loving, but needs the love of God through your witness?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. How can habit formation be a tool to enrich your spiritual life, and not just as an exercise in self-improvement? 
3. What are one or two bad habits that you want to break?
4. What are one or two good habits that you want to create? 
5. How might you invite the Lord into the work of building good habits? What natural steps can you take through your own will & efforts?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What is your temperament? How does your temperament affect your reactions?
3. How might knowing your temperament help you grow in holiness & virtue?
4. What do you understand about the temperaments of your spouse, children, and loved ones? How does that help your relationships?
5. What is one weakness of your temperament that you feel compelled to address?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. When have you shared your story with someone else? How did they receive it?
3. How has telling your story helped you receive healing and the love of God?
4. What is difficult about telling your story? What is difficult about receiving the story of someone else?
5. What is your reaction to the statement that we don't have to "fix" poverty, homelessness, etc.; we just have the love the person in front of us?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What experiences do you have in common with Scott's journey of addiction and recovery?
3. In what ways do you, and those closest to you, struggle with freedom from addiction and compulsions?
4. What is one substance or behavior that you feel challenged to give up for 3 weeks in order to gain greater freedom?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What changes have you handled poorly in your life? What changes have you handled well?
3. How easily do you tolerate change?
4. What helps you to manage change in a healthy way?
5. What tips from this episode might help you manage transitions better in the future?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. Do you think woman have been excluded from discussions around sexual sin? Why or why not?
3. What impact have you seen "purity culture" have on Catholic approaches to sex?
4. How can parents help prepare their children to confront pornography in a healthy and resilient way?
5. What kind of freedom has the Lord offered you in the face of sin?

Support the show

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. What memories do you have of trips you took growing up? What parts of those memories are joyful or painful?
3. What do you appreciate about trips as an adult? What makes trips with family or friends stressful or difficult to manage?
4. Why do you take trips? What values of yours are attached to trips with loved ones?
5. How can communication about expectations and boundaries help create a more joyful trip?
6. What tips & strategies have made your family trips more joyful?

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Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. Who are your best friends? What makes them so valuable to you?
3. Can you identify people in your life at all three levels of friendship? What feelings or reflections do you have about the people at those levels?
4. How might healthy recreation and solitude lead to better and deeper friendships?
5. What is the Christian vision of friendship, and how is it distinct from a more worldly version of friendship?
6. When has someone been a true friend to you, and how did it impact your life?

Support the show

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. How do you know when you're feeling overwhelmed? What signs do your loved ones give you when they're feeling overwhelmed?
3. What kinds of sensory input are most likely to feel like "too much" for you and for those in your household?
4. How do you regulate your senses when you've taken in too much input? 
5. How could your sensory capacity be stretched to tolerate more input? What parts of your sensory profile in need of being accepted as part of God's design for you?

Support the show

Thank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!

Join our email list and never miss an episode or an event

Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.

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Interested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for Integration

Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.