Strength Training for the Soul

Strength Training for the Soul

Welcome to Strength Training for the Soul, a podcast that explores how to deepen our connection with Jesus Christ. Here, we dive into empowering, faith-filled conversations where listeners can gain tools to strengthen their relationship with God our Lord.

Episodes

February 11, 2025 33 mins

In this episode of Strength Training for the Soul, I sit down with Sue Knutson, founder of My Father’s Wish, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering impoverished communities through vocational education and sustainable change. Sue shares how a conversation with her father in his final days led her to embrace a life of service, following God's call in a profound way. We explore her journey of faith, the challenges of starting a nonprofi...

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What happens when a 50-pound luggage limit leads to spiritual insight? In this episode, host Patty Kujawa shares how preparing for a challenging trip sparked deep reflection on the unnecessary burdens we carry - physical, emotional, and spiritual. Drawing from Matthew 11:28-30, she explores how letting go of what weighs us down can create space for God's grace. Through personal stories and practical questions for reflection, Patty ...

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Join host Patty Kujawa for Part Two of her enlightening conversation with Al McCauley, host of "Fish on Fridays" and Director of Adult Faith Formation at St. Anthony on the Lake Parish. Discover the profound meaning behind the Communion of Saints and how it connects us to both the living and those who have gone before us. Al explains the fascinating history of religious relics - from their ancient origins to their modern significan...

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Need a spiritual workout plan to learn about the saints? In this quick check-in episode, host Patty Kujawa shares her top resources for exploring the lives of saints, from beginner-friendly books to quick-hit podcasts and user-friendly websites. Whether you're looking to discover your patron saint or simply expand your knowledge of Catholic history, these carefully curated recommendations will help you strengthen your spiritual mus...

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What role do saints play in our spiritual lives? In this first episode of a two-part series, Director of Adult Faith Formation Al McCauley shares his extensive knowledge about saints and their significance in Catholic tradition. Through engaging stories and examples like Saint Veronica, Al explains how saints serve as spiritual guides, showing us that holiness is achievable despite our human struggles. Learn why saints aren't just ...

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January 7, 2025 9 mins

Discover how two Gospel passages about Mary's contemplative heart reveal the transformative power of patience. Through personal stories and practical wisdom, we explore how Mary's example can inspire us in our fast-paced world. Learn simple ways to cultivate patience and reflection in your daily life, from family gatherings to nature walks. Join us as we begin 2025 with purpose, and share your own word for the year in our Strength ...

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December 31, 2024 28 mins

Join host Patty Kujawa with special returning guests Jill Fischer and Claire Ziolkowski as they reflect on spiritual lessons from 2024 and share hopes for the year ahead. From dealing with seasons of spiritual dryness to finding community in faith, this candid conversation offers practical wisdom for deepening your relationship with Christ. Learn how embracing silence, maintaining daily prayer despite life's chaos, and finding the ...

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December 24, 2024 6 mins

In this special Christmas Eve episode, discover the powerful story of Joseph - a man who never spoke a word in the Bible, yet whose actions changed the course of history. Through examining Joseph's response to life-altering news and impossible situations, host Patty Kujawa unpacks timeless lessons about strength, faith, and character. Learn why true impact often comes not from speaking the loudest, but from living with unwavering c...

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December 17, 2024 27 mins

In this episode of Strength Training for the Soul, host Patty Kujawa sits down with Father Tim Schumaker, pastor of Saint Joseph Church in Grafton, WI, to explore a challenge many of us face: staying spiritually connected during busy times. Father Tim shares insights on how to combat the "busyness" that often pulls us away from meaningful prayer and spiritual growth, especially during the hectic Advent season. Whether you're feelin...

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December 10, 2024 7 mins

In this vulnerable journey, Patty Kujawa offers a compassionate exploration of grief during the holiday season. Drawing from her personal experiences of loss, including the recent passing of her uncle and the heartbreaking loss of her son Jack, she provides a tender guide for navigating mourning during Advent.

With raw honesty and spiritual wisdom...

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December 3, 2024 25 mins

Philanthropy isn't always about big money; when it's about big heart, the payback can be huge--for everyone involved. Jamie O'Donohue, owner of O'Donohue's Pub, shares how ordinary people can make extraordinary differences through time, talent, and genuine service. From overcoming personal struggles to supporting local charities, Jamie shows that giving back isn't a burden—it's a joy that can transform both the giver and the commun...

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We all have that ONE family member who knows exactly how to push our buttons. This episode is your survival guide for turning potential conflict into an opportunity for spiritual growth, one generous moment at a time.

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Joe Meyer, director of the Catholic Ecology Center and environmental science teacher, shares how his passion for faith and nature led to creating a unique ministry. From his personal journey to the founding of the Catholic Ecology Center, Meyer discusses how spending time in nature can deepen our spiritual lives and help us hear God's voice more clearly. He offers practical wisdom for answering God's call and finding divine beauty ...

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November 11, 2024 8 mins

In this timely episode, explore how an ancient story about a widow's trust can speak to our modern uncertainties. Through the metaphor of a never-emptying flour jar, discover how faith works in both life's daily moments and its biggest challenges. Perfect for anyone seeking perspective after the election season or during times of change.

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November 5, 2024 34 mins

Ever wonder how people know they're on the right path?

When investment banker David Sweeney started having thoughts about priesthood, he tried to ignore them. He thought the priesthood was a fine life, it just wasn't one for him. In this episode, Fr. Sweeney shares how daily prayer transformed his life and helped him discover his true calling—and how it can help you find yours.

#PurposeDriven #FaithJourney #Catholic #SpiritualGrowt...

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After months of strengthening our spiritual foundations through Daily Prayer, Scripture, and the Sacraments, we're ready to level up! In this special check-in episode, we introduce 'Strength Spotting' - our new segment celebrating God's daily presence - and look ahead to inspiring stories of ordinary people who relied on these same fundamentals to discover their extraordinary purpose. Plus, find out how a simple retreat question sp...

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October 22, 2024 22 mins

In this episode of Strength Training for the Soul, we're hitting the Bible gym for a serious workout! Join us as we explore why Scripture is the ultimate protein shake for your faith and learn some killer techniques to make your Bible study sessions more effective.

Our spiritual personal trainers, Jill and Claire from St. Dominic Parish, spot us as we lift the heavy questions: Why is Scripture so crucial? How do we choose the right...

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October 15, 2024 10 mins

Time for a quick spiritual workout! In this "Check-In" episode, we're spotting your sacramental practice. Discover how Confession and Eucharist act as your spiritual gym sessions, helping you shed the weight of mistakes and bulk up on divine grace. Get practical tips on finding Mass and Confession times, and learn why these sacraments are crucial for tethering yourself to God. Plus, get a book recommendation to deepen your Eucharis...

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Ever wonder how to stay connected to Jesus in your daily life? Join us as we dive into the power of sacraments! We're mainly talking about two sacraments you'll want to keep in your back pocket: the Eucharist and Reconciliation. Plus, we'll chat about what makes the sacrament of marriage so sacred. Here's a fun tidbit: one of our guests says going to Reconciliation is like visiting a doctor for your soul. Intrigued? Tune in to lear...

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October 1, 2024 12 mins

In this quick Check-in Day episode, we revisit daily prayer. Get encouragement and practical tips to enhance your conversation with God, no matter your experience level. Learn how to make the most of your prayer time and kickstart a consistent routine. Join us for this spiritual strength training session!

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