Catholic Episodes

As the United States celebrates its 250th birthday, Shelly and Lisa take a thoughtful look at one of the most revolutionary ideas in American history: the belief that our rights are not granted by government but are endowed by our Creator. In this special Independence Day episode, they explore how the Declaration of Independence reflects a timeless truth found in Scripture and affirmed by the Catholic Church—that every human person possesses inherent dignity because we are created in the image ...

In this episode from "Of Sound Mind and Spirit," the focus is on the Sacred Heart devotion—a centuries-old Catholic practice that is more relevant than ever for anyone yearning for faith-filled comfort and a deeper sense of purpose in a hectic, disconnected world.

Discover how a meaningful summer is less about doing it all and more about being present with loved ones and God.

Have you ever wondered what the most important truth isat the heart of your faith journey? We're excited to mark the third anniversary of the Of Sound Mind and Spirit podcast! In honor of this milestone, we're re-releasing our very first episode, "God Loves You," which truly captures the heart of our mission: sharing hope, faith, encouragement, and the reminder that God is present in very part of our journey. Whether you've been with us from the start or are just discovering us now, we're grate...

If you’re a Catholic woman who quietly questions whether you’re “Catholic enough,” you’re not alone. This episode dives into that unspoken insecurity and the comparison culture intensified by social media, parish life, and shifting expectations.

What is one gift your mother—or a spiritual mother—has given you that you can share to brighten someone else's life today? Mother’s Day often brings up a mix of emotions: gratitude, longing, joy, and sometimes loss. In this episode of Of Sound Mind and Spirit with Lisa Jones and Shelly Kelly, you’re invited to explore how honoring the mothers and mother figures in your life not only celebrates their legacy but actively enriches your own relationships and spiritual journey. Whether you’re s...

Do you ever feel like your prayers get lost in the noise of daily life, or struggle to hear where God is leading you next? For anyone navigating transitions, seeking to deepen faith, or simply longing for a more heartfelt connection with God, prayer journaling is a powerful but often overlooked practice. In the midst of busy schedules and endless distractions, many of us yearn for a quiet space to process our worries, recognize God's presence, and grow spiritually—but it's so easy to get stuc...

Ever feel like finding time for prayer or a real connection with Jesus just isn’t possible with your busy, everyday life—even though you crave it? You're not alone! A lot of us are searching for a way to make faith part of more than just Sundays, but we get stuck in the grind and routines. This episode from Of Sound Mind and Spirit is all about how you can bring Jesus into your day-to-day, with special guest Lisa Hendey, creator of Catholic Mom and author of Jesus Every Day, Jesus Every Way. Li...

Have you ever found yourself thinking, “Lord, save me!” in the midst of anxiety or overwhelming stress? In today’s world, worry and anxiety have become all too familiar companions for many of us—sometimes leaving us feeling helpless, hopeless, or convinced we have to control every outcome. This episode of Of Sound Mind and Spirit is dedicated to those moments when life feels hard, and you yearn for peace but don’t know where to turn. Hosts Lisa and Shelly welcome special guest Gary Zimak, a Ca...

Are you finding yourself suddenly surrounded by a quieter house and wondering, “Now what?” as your children move out or become more independent? If you’re facing the big transition of entering the empty nest phase—or anticipating it soon—this episode of Of Sound Mind and Spirit is for you. Hosts Shelly and Lisa candidly unpack the emotional, spiritual, and practical shifts that come with children leaving home, and how you can use this new season to rediscover purpose, deepen connections, and ac...

What if you could gain the wisdom and courage of a saint to guide you through today’s challenges? In this episode of Of Sound Mind and Spirit, hosts Shelly Kelly and Lisa Jones interview author and teacher Amy Cattapan about her new book, "Hope Without Borders," which explores the powerful spirituality and real-life writings of Mother Cabrini. If you’re searching for practical faith, resilience, or a renewed sense of hope in uncertain times, this episode showshow the legacy of Mother Cabrini can...

What happens when two sisters team up to journey through faith, family, and real-life messiness—can that kind of relationship actually strengthen your own spiritual walk?

Are you searching for real healing and hope during life’s toughest sorrows? In this episode of Of Sound Mind and Spirit, returning guest Maria Gallagher joins hosts Shelly Kelly and Lisa Jones to discuss her newest book, Healing Encounters with Mary. Drawing on her rich experience as a journalist, life coach, and Catholic writer, Maria dives into the power of finding real comfort, healing, and growth by turning to Mary—especially during times of deep struggle or grief. In a world wheresuffering...

Have you ever felt like you know a lot about your faith—but wonder if that knowledge is actually changing your life? In this episode of Of Sound Mind and Spirit, we invite you to walk with us as we unpack the difference between knowing about God and truly experiencing a living faith. In a world where we’re surrounded by information, it’s easy to believe that just learning more will deepen our relationship with God. But what if the missing piece is not another book or podcast, but actually lett...

Hosts Lisa and Shelly sit down with Domenic Bettinelli, the CEO of StarQuest Media (SQPN), to explore how a unique network of Catholic podcasters is tackling the challenge of bringing positivity, meaning, and connection to both faith-filled and searching audiences—right in the middle of modern media’s landscape.

Lisa and Shelly are joined by Mary Beth Eberhard—a mom of eight and master of authentic gatherings—who shares personal stories and honest confessions about letting go of entertaining pressure, embracing the “holy mess” of family life, and finding Christ in every guest at your door. If you’re longing for deeper community, more spiritual meaning in your home, or just some encouragement to invite others in as you are, this is the perfect listen.

This week, we’re setting aside our regular plans to address the news that’s been on everyone’s hearts—the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. Like so many Catholics around the world, we woke up to this news with shock and sadness and felt called to pause and reflect on what his life and papacy have meant to us.

What Does Holy Week Mean for Our Daily Lives? In today's fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, even during Holy Week. How can we find moments of peace and reflection amid our busy schedules? This episode dives deep into embracing Holy Week as a layperson navigating the demands of modern life.

How does watching a TV series about the life of Jesus help deepen your understanding of the Gospels and possibly transform your spiritual journey? In this episode of "Of Sound Mind and Spirit," Lisa and Shelly explore the phenomenon of The Chosen and delve into howthis unique portrayal of Jesus and his disciples can resonate with viewers on a personal faith level.

Ever Wonder How Retreats Can Strengthen Community Bonds? In this episode of "Of Sound Mind and Spirit," Lisa and Shelly share their experiences from a recent retreat with fellow writers of CatholicMom.com.

Are you seeking a deeper spiritual connection with your friends while growing in your faith journey? This episode of "Of Sound Mind and Spirit" dives into the concept of creating personal retreats with your friends, blending fun and spirituality for a meaningful experience. In today’s fast-paced world, carving out intentional time with close friends to explore and deepen your spiritual lives together can seem like a challenging goal.

Curious about how to make this Lent truly transformative for your spiritual journey? In this episode of "Of Sound Mind and Spirit," hosts Lisa Jones and Shelly Kelly dive into the complexities and joys of observing Lent, a significant time in the Christian liturgical calendar aimed at deepening one's faith and relationship with God.

Are you ready for your beautiful second act? Join sisters Shelly and Lisa on Of Sound Mind and Spirit as they welcome back their first encore guest, Maria Johnson, for an invigorating conversation about navigating life's transitions.

Have you ever wondered how unexpected blessings can transform your life and lead you to your true purpose? In this episode of "Of Sound Mind and Spirit," we delve into the inspiring journey of Maria Riley, a Catholic wife, mom, and author, as she shares her story of trusting God's timing and discovering joy through faith.