Catholic Momcast

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Cheryl Hughes, mom, convert, and author of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker. Cheryl C. D. Hughes holds a Ph.D. in historical theology from Durham University in England. Her books include Katharine Drexel: The Riches-to-Rags Story of an American Catholic Saint (2014) and Crossing Boundaries and Confounding Identity: Chinese Women in Literature, Art, and Film (2023). She and her husband live in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Links in Show: Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker

Listen to the podcast playback or watch the video from Week 3 of the Catholic Mom Book Club featuring A Beautiful Second Act by Maria Morera Johnson. Maria and host Allison Gingras discuss Chapters 7 and 8 of our Book Club selection, chatting about the fascinating women profiled in this book and what we can learn from their successes and their difficulties. You have plenty of time to catch up on the reading if you're just getting started with this beautiful book. What's the book about? In A Beautiful Second Act, bestselling author Maria Morera Johnson explores the adventure of life’s second half, drawing inspiration from twenty saints and “soul sisters” who faced these challenges with courage. As advancements in health and medicine extend our lifespan, women of the sandwich generation — those balancing the needs of both children and parents — are experiencing a multitude of challenges as they transition out of the workforce and into the promise of retirement. A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters Wh

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

The March 2025 Book Club features Catholic Mom media editor Maria Morera Johnson and her new book, A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace, published by Ave Maria Press. What's the book about? In A Beautiful Second Act, bestselling author Maria Morera Johnson explores the adventure of life’s second half, drawing inspiration from twenty saints and “soul sisters” who faced these challenges with courage. As advancements in health and medicine extend our lifespan, women of the sandwich generation — those balancing the needs of both children and parents — are experiencing a multitude of challenges as they transition out of the workforce and into the promise of retirement. A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters Who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace contains encouragement and wisdom from saints and contemporary soul sisters who experienced similar challenges during their transition to midlife and beyond and offers insight into the aging process. Wher

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Catholicmom.com contributor Meg Herriot at the Catholic Mom Contributor retreat. Meg Herriot is a veterinarian and Third Order Dominican. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and pets and blogging at All Creatures Great and Crazy about being a veterinarian, mother, wife and most of all a Catholic trying to grow closer to God in a chaotic world. Link in Show:  Read all articles by Meg Herriot All Creatures Great and Crazy

The March 2025 Book Club features Catholic Mom media editor Maria Morera Johnson and her new book, A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace, published by Ave Maria Press. What's the book about? In A Beautiful Second Act, bestselling author Maria Morera Johnson explores the adventure of life’s second half, drawing inspiration from twenty saints and “soul sisters” who faced these challenges with courage. As advancements in health and medicine extend our lifespan, women of the sandwich generation — those balancing the needs of both children and parents — are experiencing a multitude of challenges as they transition out of the workforce and into the promise of retirement. A Beautiful Second Act: Saints and Soul Sisters Who Taught Me to Be a Badass Age with Grace contains encouragement and wisdom from saints and contemporary soul sisters who experienced similar challenges during their transition to midlife and beyond and offers insight into the aging process. Wher

Maria Morera Johnson and Barb Szyszkiewicz interview Elizabeth Varga, founder of At Elizabeth's Table, a recipe blog that exolores the intersection of food and the Catholic faith. Elizabeth Varga is the founder of At Elizabeth’s Table, a plant-based recipe blog that explores the relationship between food and the Catholic faith. With a passion for healthy living, she is a full-time food blogger and food photographer. When not in the kitchen, Elizabeth enjoys drinking coffee, working out, listening to podcasts, and going on long walks. Follow along with her blog at AtElizabethsTable.com. Links in Show: AtElizabethsTable.com. Read all articles by Elizabeth Varga Meatless Friday Recipes

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Founder and Chief Purpose Officer of Walking with Purpose (WWP), a Catholic women's ministry, and the new book for young women, Heart of Vines. Lisa Brenninkmeyer is the Founder and Chief Purpose Officer of Walking with Purpose (WWP), a Catholic women's ministry. Lisa has authored 19 WWP Bible study courses, two devotionals, BLAZE and Sisters of Strength resources for Catholic tween/teens, and a guided prayer journal, and Heart of Vines for young adults — all of which lead women and young girls to a closer relationship with the Lord.  After hearing story after story of women looking for a safe place to ask questions about faith and needing ways to refuel, Lisa decided to do something to bring change. The result of her holy discontent is Walking with Purpose. Lisa is crazy about women, loves Christ passionately, and thinks the most exciting thing in the world is to connect the former with the latter. Lisa holds a BA in psychology from St. Olaf College and is

Heidi Hess Saxton and Maria Morera Johnson interview Joan Watson, author of Opening the Holy Doors: Hope-Filled Scripture Reflections from St. Peter's Basilica. In Opening the Holy Door, scripture teacher and seasoned tour guide Joan Watson takes you on a journey through the sixteen panels of the Jubilee Holy Door. With her knack for storytelling and love for scripture, she invites you to pause, pray, and reflect on the deeper meaning behind these stunning images. Using a blend of scripture and imaginative prayer, Joan helps you see each panel not just as art, but as a doorway into the great story of salvation. Link in Show:· Opening the Holy Door: Hope-Filled Scripture Reflections from St. Peter's Basilica.

Maria Morera Johnson and Allison Gingras discuss Ash Wednesday and practices for Lent. Allison and Maria dive into the traditions of Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season, exploring both time-honored devotions and some non-traditional practices that can deepen our faith. Their lively banter mixes humor and heart while sharing stories and dipping intpo the Catholic Mom vault to rediscover articles. Links in Show: Jump Start Your Lent by Tina Mayeux Catholic Central: Ash Wednesday  

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Meigs Sturgeon, Special Assistant to the President at Holy Cross Family Ministries. Meet Meigs Sturgeon, Special Assistant to the President, Fr. Fred Jenga, C.S.C., at Holy Cross Family Ministries. Meigs joined HCFM from Austin, Texas where he most recently served as Assistant Director of the Holy Cross Institute at St. Edward’s University and Adjunct Professor of Christian Theology. He graduated with a Master of Divinity from Duke University; is an expert in Holy Cross Charism and Spirituality, a prolific writer and speaker on different faith-based topics.   Link in Show: Holy Cross Family Ministries

  Heidi Hess Saxton and Maria Morera Johnson interview Morella Carta, founder of St. Jospeh's Little Stars in Jinga, Uganda. Morella Carta is the founder of “St. Joseph’s Little Stars” in Jinga, Uganda. Born in Venezuela and educated in New York City, Morella retired from corporate life in order to dedicate her life to service, most recently abused and abandoned children. In three years of operations, StarsUganda has saved the lives of 40 children and supported over 100 children in the community. They were recently granted two acres of property by the Diocese of Jinga, and are in the process of building a self-sustainable community in order to expand the reach of their ministry. Links for show notes: · Day to day donation page: · “Build with us” construction of new house.

Maria Morera Johnson interviews CatholicMom.com contributor Tami Urcia. Tami is a Western Michigander who spent early adulthood as a missionary in Mexico, studying theology and philosophy, then worked and traveled extensively before finishing her bachelor’s degree in Western Kentucky. She loves finding fun ways to keep her five kiddos occupied and quiet conversation with the hubby. Tami works at Diocesan and does Spanish/English translations and guest blogs. Links in Show:  Read all articles by Tami Urcia.

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

Heidi Hess Saxton and Maria Morera Johnson discuss the transitions in the second half of life  and how praying with the saints accompanies us in that change. Maria Morera Johnson is an award-winning author, speaker, and digital missionary passionate about encouraging women to embrace the beauty and purpose of midlife and beyond. Her books, including A Beautiful Second Act and My Badass Book of Saints, inspire readers to deepen their faith and live with boldness and joy. A lifelong educator and storyteller, Maria brings humor, wisdom, and a deep love for her Catholic faith to her writing, speaking engagements, and podcast Links for the Show: A Beautiful Second Act Maria's author page Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson

Maria Morera Johnson interviews Catholic Mom contributor Kimberly Novak, author of Bella's Beautiful Miracle. Kimberly Novak is a wife, mother, author, and spiritual director. Her passion for inspiring and motivating those on a spiritual journey has bloomed into various ministries. Kimberly’s mission is to enhance each journey by guiding others where the light of strength is…God’s love. Find out more about Kimberly’s life and work at KimberlyNovak.com. Additionally, Kimberly welcomes prayer requests at A Little God Time.   Links in Show: Author of Bella's Beautiful Miracle, A Caterpillar's Journey www.kimberlynovak.com www.outofthechrysalis.com Read all articles by Kimberly Novak.

Maria Morera Johnson, and guest Inés Huber Mersch sit down for a chat about the busy-ness of our lives and living for God's will in our lives. Links for Today's Show:  The Grace of Yes by Lisa Hendey

Maria Morera Johnson and Allison Gingras open up about their personal journeys as caregivers, sharing the joys, struggles, and unexpected graces they’ve encountered while caring for their loved ones. Drawing inspiration from articles in the Catholic Mom archives, they explore practical tips, spiritual insights, and the unique challenges that come with this loving responsibility. Links in Show: The Seven Sorrows Rosary for Caregivers by Barb Szyszkiewicz Mom, Grandmother, Caregiver: It's Not Easy by Amanda Lauer Better than Self-Care by Kate Moreland

Maria Morera Johnson and CatholicMom.com contributor Karen Estep talk about the joys and challenges of snow days. Karen Estep is a Catholic speaker and writer who brings wisdom and humor to her reflections on faith, life, and the unexpected moments in between. Today's conversation reminisces about snow days, eating snow cream, and avoiding cabin fever. Links in Show:  - Instagram: Stand, Kneel, Now What? - Stand, Kneel, Now What Podcast on Spotify - Read all articles by Karen Estep

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton welcome Beth Sri, co-author of The Good, the Messy, and the beautiful: The Joys and Struggles of Real Married Life. Beth Sri is a Catholic speaker, author, and mentor passionate about helping women embrace the joys (and chaos) of marriage and motherhood. She and her husband, Dr. Edward Sri, co-authored The Good, the Messy, and the Beautiful: The Joys and Struggles of Real Married Life. They live in Colorado with their eight kids—where Beth balances writing, leading retreats, cooking Italian meals, and cheering on her kids at soccer games. She’s also on the board for Life-Giving Wounds, supporting adult children of divorce.