I had the privilege of interviewing my dear friend Linda Hardesty, a woman of incredible strength and faith. Over the 25 years of our friendship, I’ve seen Linda endure tremendous heartbreak while always finding a way to maintain joy and gratitude. Linda’s story is one of resilience and unwavering faith, even in the face of unimaginable loss. When her daughter Brooke was tragically killed, Linda’s faith was her anchor. She recalled how, despite the heartache, she forgave Brooke's killer the very night it happened, believing that this act of forgiveness allowed God to pour graces over her and help her support her devastated husband.

Linda’s journey with faith began when she met her husband John, a Catholic. Despite not being raised in a religious household, Linda was drawn to the rituals and beauty of the Catholic Church. Over the years, her faith deepened, and when Brooke died, it was her faith that saw her through. Linda spoke of the peace she found in prayer, especially in turning to Mary, the mother of Jesus, for comfort. As she took on the role of mother and grandmother to Brooke's son, Trey, Linda’s devotion to Mary grew stronger, providing her with the strength to fill the void left by Brooke’s absence.

Trey became a source of immense joy for Linda. She cherished their time together and found solace in being a mother figure to him. Trey would light up the room even from a young age and he was loved by so many. Again, Linda experienced another devastating loss when Trey died of an overdose. Linda’s faith and the support of her family and community helped her walk through this loss. Her story is a testament to the power of faith, forgiveness, and the profound impact of love and community in overcoming life’s darkest moments.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

This week, we're diving into a profound and beautiful topic: the sacrament of the Eucharist and Eucharistic adoration. The Catholic Church has been focusing on bringing people back to the altar table, helping them understand and embrace the holy Eucharist. With the National Eucharistic Congress happening this week in Indianapolis, there's a significant effort underway to renew and deepen our faith and devotion to the Eucharist. I'll share some eye-opening statistics and discuss the National Eucharistic Revival, a multi-year effort by the US bishops to strengthen belief and participation in the Eucharist. As Catholic Midlife women it is our responsibility to share our love of the Eucharist with others, especially how it nourishes our souls and helps us in our daily life. 

As we explore the importance of the Eucharist, we'll talk about why it's often misunderstood and how it nurtures our souls. The Eucharist is not just a symbol or a remembrance of Christ's Last Supper; it's the true body and blood of Jesus Christ, present in a miraculous and mysterious way. For many of us, especially as midlife moms, the Eucharist holds a profound significance. I'll share my own journey of growing in love and understanding of the Eucharist through Eucharistic adoration and how this transformed my spiritual life. Recent statistics show that belief in the Eucharist is declining at an alarming rate. As the "source and summit" of our faith it is time for revival in our church. 

 The Eucharist offers a wellspring of grace and renewal, especially during times of trial and spiritual dryness. Let's embrace this beautiful sacrament with a renewed sense of awe and devotion, allowing it to deepen our relationship with Jesus and enrich every aspect of our lives.

 Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

*** This show contains content about suicide, trauma and painful family situations. If these topics are a trigger for you, please skip this episode.

This week I talk with my friend, Bob Forster. Bob is a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. In this show he shares his personal journey of healing and forgiveness with his father and the devastating loss of his brother to suicide.

Bob shares his story of vulnerability as he recounts his struggles and the healing path he has walked. He shared his extensive experience working with youth and emphasized the importance of trust and sincerity in building connections with young people. Bob's journey was not just about his personal pain but also about his mission to inspire others to find strength in their own adversities. He spoke of his efforts to bridge the gap between adults and youth, highlighting the crucial role of trusted adults in children's lives. His narrative, punctuated with moments of vulnerability around his brother's suicide and his relationship with his father gives profound insights and illustrates the transformative power of facing one's wounds head-on and finding solace in faith.

I was moved by Bob's courage and the wisdom he imparted. His reminder that "it's okay to not be okay" is an important message for everyone, emphasizing the importance of seeking support and speaking out. His stories and insights are a beacon of hope for many, including myself. Bob's openness and the vital work he continues to do will inspire and give you a renewed sense of purpose to support others on their healing journey even in the darkest of times. 

Here is a link to Bob's talk at Holy Family Church in January 2024

Holy Family Catholic Church Counseling

Crisis Services and Suicide Prevention in Tennessee

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this show, I delve into the concept of freedom from a spiritual perspective, especially relevant to Catholic midlife women. I define true freedom according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, explaining that it aligns with God’s will and leads to a life full of joy and peace. Life is a constant battle for freedom, and the good news is that God is the ultimate victor in all of these battles.

I discuss various obstacles to living in spiritual freedom, such as original sin, resentment, and spiritual warfare. I share personal and practical advice on how to overcome these challenges by leaning in your faith, prayer, and the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6. I discuss the significance of understanding and combatting spiritual warfare, recognizing the subtle tactics of the enemy that aim to deceive, discourage, and enslave. Instead of being fearful, God gives you everything you need to walk in freedom!

The pressures of perfectionism and the feelings of guilt and shame are common struggles for many Catholic moms that I coach each day. I encourage listeners to let go of unrealistic expectations and embrace God’s grace, which allows for a life filled with joy and peace. I share personal struggles and how scripture calls us to forgiveness and to reject bitterness which can lead to spiritual freedom. God doesn’t expect perfection from you but faithfulness.

I share my discovery of  the importance of community and support among midlife women, urging us to help each other "bloom" in our faith journeys. By surrounding ourselves with people who are uplifting,  we can better magnify Christ in our lives and positively impact our families and communities.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

Today, we’re delving into the inspiring life and teachings of St. Therese of Lisieux, exploring how her wisdom speaks to us as Catholic midlife women. St. Therese, also known as the Little Flower, offers profound insights that resonate deeply with the challenges and joys of our stage in life. Her "Little Way" teaches us to find holiness in simplicity and to approach our daily tasks with great love.

I want to share with you five powerful lessons we can apply to our lives from the teachings and writings of St. Therese of Lisieux.

Lesson One: The Little Way

St. Therese’s "Little Way" isn’t just a spiritual concept; it’s a practical path to holiness. She likened it to an elevator to holiness, finding that true spiritual elevation comes from embracing humility and small acts of love, rather than seeking worldly acclaim or success. St. Therese reminds us that less is often more and that simplicity and humility are crucial in our journey of faith.

Lesson Two: Trust and Surrender

St. Therese’s life was marked by profound trust in God’s plan, even amidst personal trials and suffering. She encourages us to surrender our worries and control, embracing God’s loving providence. This trust doesn’t mean being passive; it means actively choosing to believe that God is working for our good, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain.

Lesson Three: Balancing Family, Career, and Faith

Finding balance is a struggle many midlife women face. St. Therese reminds us that our daily duties, performed with love and devotion, are acts of worship. By integrating prayer and reflection into our routines, such as offering a quick prayer of gratitude while driving to work or setting aside a few moments for reflection before bed, we can find spiritual harmony amidst life’s demands.

Lesson Four: Overcoming Self-Doubt

St. Therese’s profound humility and confidence in God’s unconditional love teach us that our worth isn’t defined by achievements or societal standards. Rather, it comes from being cherished daughters of God, valued for who we are in His eyes. She encourages us to overcome self-doubt by recognizing our spiritual worth and embracing the truth that we are enough just as we are.

Lesson Five: Creating a Legacy of Love

Finally, St. Therese inspires us to create a legacy of love by passing on our faith to future generations. Whether through small acts of kindness or sharing stories of saints, we can instill values that endure beyond our lifetime. By modeling a faith-filled life and nurturing a love for God in our families, we ensure that our beliefs and values will continue to flourish in the hearts of those we touch.

 I encourage you to reflect on how St. Therese’s teachings can enrich your life. Her "Little Way" invites us to find holiness in simplicity, trust in God’s providence, balance our responsibilities with prayer, overcome self-doubt, and leave a legacy of faith and love. 

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this week's show, Jennie is joined by Debbie Rayhab who is an expert in integrative and functional nutrition. Debbie has an extensive background in the food industry and an inspiring journey toward integrating nutrition with spiritual health. Debbie has spent over 25 years in marketing and health communication, and her passion for healthy living was further ignited by her son's struggle with ADD and the impacts of taking medication. Her personal experience led her to explore the connection between food, as mentioned in the Bible, and its scientific health benefits.

Debbie shares how she discovered that many foods mentioned in scripture, such as garlic, mint, basil, apples, and figs, have significant health benefits, particularly in fighting inflammation. This realization propelled her to pursue a PhD in integrative and functional nutrition to connect her scientific knowledge with biblical teachings, advocating for the health benefits God has outlined in the Bible.

Debbie explains how physical health, spiritual health, and mental well-being are interconnected. She encourages listeners to see food as a divine gift and a part of God’s roadmap for healthy living.

Debbie provides practical nutrition tips for midlife moms to easily incorporate into their daily lives:

Debbie shares that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Simple recipes using accessible ingredients can be both nutritious and delicious. She shares her love of the Mediterranean way of eating, which is known for its emphasis on olive oil, fresh vegetables, and whole grains. Debbie explains how this diet supports longevity and reduces chronic diseases, showcasing its alignment with both scientific research and biblical principles. This show is full of wisdom and practical steps that help you live happy, healthy and holy!

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In the bustling heart of Mexico City, amid the chaos and clamor of urban life, lies a sacred haven – the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This iconic pilgrimage site draws countless Catholics yearning for healing, connection and an encounter with the Blessed Mother and her Son. In today's show, we embark on a journey through the eyes and experiences of Gia, a devoted Catholic midlife mom whose recent pilgrimage to Mexico City left an indelible mark on her faith and motherhood journey.

Gia's connection to Mexico runs deep, rooted in a year of mission work she undertook in an orphanage just outside of Mexico City after college. The opportunity to immerse herself in serving abandoned children infused her with a profound sense of purpose and ignited a lifelong passion for combining faith with compassionate action. Her return to Mexico City, decades later, was a poignant homecoming, marked by anticipation and emotional resonance.

Led by Catholic influencer, Katie McGrady, and Dominican friar Father Patrick Henry, Gia's pilgrimage group embarked on a soul-stirring exploration of Mexico City's rich Catholic heritage. Amid visits to historic churches and shrines, the highlight was undoubtedly the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. For Gia, witnessing her fellow pilgrims' first encounters with Our Lady's presence knowing her devotion to the Blessed Mother was a profound experience.

As Gia reflects on her pilgrimage experience, she connects with the common theme weaving through each pilgrim's journey – an openness to allowing the Blessed Mother lead them closer to her Son and a heart ready to act on their faith. Drawing parallels between her faith journey and her professional life, Gia emphasizes the importance of listening and obedience, recognizing that true fulfillment lies in aligning one's actions with God's will.

Delving into the history of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Gia shares the story of St. Juan Diego, a humble indigenous man chosen by the Blessed Mother as her messenger. Amidst the miraculous encounters and divine interventions, Gia finds moments of profound resonance, particularly in the iconic phrase inscribed on the Basilica – "Am I not here, your mother?" – a timeless reminder of Mary's eternal love and guidance.

As the show comes to a close, Gia shares a poignant message inspired by Our Lady of Guadalupe – a message of love, acceptance, and empowerment. Encouraging midlife women to embrace their worthiness and trust in God's plan and purpose for their lives. Gia implores them to magnify Christ in their daily lives and spread love and faith in their communities, especially within their homes.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this week's show I talk with Lindy Wynne, the host of the podcast, Mama's In Spirit, to discuss faith, family, and the journey of midlife. Lindy shares her story of moving from California to Franklin, Tennessee, a decision that came from much discernment and prayer during the pandemic. She recounts the challenges and blessings of this significant transition in her family and how God has shown up in amazing ways. 

Lindy talks about the mental, emotional and spiritual challenges of moving her family across the country to a new state, purchasing their dream home on a beautiful piece of property and the importance of relying on God and reaching out for help during this huge transition. She emphasizes the significance of authentic relationships and how they've fortified her through various trials, including adopting children with special needs and family illnesses.

The conversation delves into the complexities of midlife, from hormonal changes to navigating relationships with adult children and aging parents. Lindy and I reflect on the importance of letting go of the need to control everything and the value of asking for help and building genuine connections with with other women based on authentic friendships.

Lindy shares a profound experience of feeling God's presence during a time when her husband was very ill. She shares a moment in her faith journey when she knew God was present and with her no matter the outcome, illustrating how her faith has grown through difficult circumstances. She emphasizes the importance of being open to God's love and finding joy and peace even in life's most difficult moments.

Lindy and I talk about the beautiful Catholic community in Middle Tennessee, encourage listeners to seek and nurture meaningful friendships, grounded in faith and mutual affection. 

Check out Lindy's podcast, Mama's in Spirit.

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.

In this week's show I talk with Hayley Robinson Shovlin about her sister Rosie. Hayley has written a book, The Little Flower of Nashville, about Rosie's courageous and faithfilled battle with cancer. At a young age, Rosie had spiritual wisdom that surpasses understanding. Her family and friends watched as she continued to trust in Jesus even when things didn't make sense and her health continued to decline.

In the book, Hayley shares snipets from Rosie's journal. Rosie's writing is so profound and heartfelt. Her journal entries contain the same wisdom and insight that we often read from great saints in our church. Rosie fought the good fight until the very end of her time on earth. She lived her life in such a way that even now she continues to inspire and encourage others on their faith journey. Her witness and love of God even in the midst of pain and suffering offers hope and peace for anyone facing a difficult situation. 

If you need hope and to know that God works even in the midst of the storm...Rosie's story will inspire you to trust that Jesus is in control and to rely on him for his strength!

Click here to learn more about The Little Flower of Nashville and to order a copy of the book. 

Jennie Guinn is a Catholic speaker, Life Coach, Podcaster, Weekly Radio Show Host on Nashville Catholic Radio and Radio Maria USA, and the founder of Catholic Moms in the Middle. After 26 years of working in Catholic education, Jennie felt God calling her "to step out of the boat" to serve in a new way. In her new ministry, she equips and encourages middle-life women to encounter the love of the Father and to be transformed and healed by the power of the Holy Spirit so they can MAGNIFY Christ in their corner of the world.