Amy grew up a devoted cradle Catholic with a strong formation in scripture and the sacraments. But during college, a relationship with a fundamentalist Christian family led her into confusion, fear, and deep questioning about salvation and the Catholic faith. She describes this as a season where God felt distant and she didn’t know how to find answers.

Everything changed through a simple, profound moment with her mother—a moment that brought her back into the heart of the Church and set her on a new path.

Over time, God continued to nudge Amy gently but persistently:

• to lead Bible studies
• to write spiritually rich fiction
• to create a Bible study for Catholic women
• to speak at retreats and conferences
• and ultimately—to lead pilgrimages around the world

A transformative trip to the Holy Land in 2016 crystallized her mission. Watching the sunset over the Sea of Galilee, she realized her calling: to reflect God’s light to others.

Memorable Quote from Amy

“I realized my story is to do whatever He tells me.”

(Reflecting on Mary’s words at the Wedding at Cana, John 2:5)

Amy’s Favorite Scripture

John 2:5 — “Do whatever He tells you.”

A verse she sees as Mary’s second fiat, guiding us to trust Jesus even when we don’t fully understand what He’s asking.

About Amy Schisler

Amy is an author, retreat leader, speaker, and pilgrimage guide. Her work includes:

• Inspirational fiction
• Devotional and meditation books
• Pocket-sized saints books (co-authored with her mother)
• A Catholic women’s Bible study
• Online Bible studies
• Parish retreats and national speaking
• Pilgrimages to the Holy Land and beyond

Learn more about her books, retreats, pilgrimages, or online Bible study at: amyschislerauthor.com

When life didn’t go the way she planned, Maria discovered that God’s hand was still at work—in ways she never imagined. From devastating miscarriages and opening her home to foster children to standing in the holy presence of the Eucharistic Miracle in Fatima, Maria’s story is one of surrender, healing, and transformation.

Now a Catholic author and mom of four, Maria shares how God turned heartbreak into blessing and how she learned to pray without ceasing, even in the darkest seasons.

This conversation will remind you that even when you can’t see Him, God is moving.

In This Episode

• Maria’s early faith life and lifelong connection to the Mass
• How her husband’s conversion to Catholicism became part of their family’s story
• Facing the pain of four miscarriages and finding hope through foster care and adoption
• Learning to recognize God’s presence in hindsight
• The miraculous pilgrimage to Fatima that transformed her heart and faith
• How Maria channels her journey into writing faith-filled stories for children and moms

Favorite Scripture

“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Learn More About Maria Riley

• Website: MariaRileyAuthor.com
• Instagram & Facebook: @MariaRileyAuthor
• Books: Adventures with the Saints series (Books 1–4 available now; Book 5 coming in 2026)

Connect with the God Is Good Podcast

Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement today. Because no matter what you’re facing… God is good.

Welcome to The God Is Good Podcast, where we share real stories of God’s transforming love. In today’s episode, our newest storyteller, Rose, shares her journey from spiritual confusion to deep Catholic faith. Her story reveals how God gently guides us back to Him. From her early childhood faith to a life-changing encounter with St. Thérèse of Lisieux, Rose discovered the beauty of surrender, virtue, and a prayer life rooted in love. Her story reminds us that God never stops pursuing our hearts—and that His grace can turn even our cracks into beautiful mirrors that reflect His light.

Guest: Rose Folsom, founder of VirtueConnection.com and spiritual guide at RoseFolsom.com

Summary:

In this episode, Rose shares her powerful journey from childhood faith to spiritual searching—and the moment she finally understood who Jesus truly is. Her transformation began when a simple book by St. Thérèse of Lisieux awakened her heart and drew her home to the Catholic Church. From there, Rose dove deeply into the study of virtue, the Dominican tradition, and the power of personal prayer. Today, she helps others develop joyful, customized prayer lives that anchor them in peace and purpose.

Topics Covered:

• Growing up with faith—but not yet knowing Jesus
• Finding healing after emotional and spiritual brokenness
• A life-changing encounter with St. Thérèse of Lisieux
• Conversion to Catholicism and Dominican spirituality
• The journey from virtue to prayer—and how both transform the soul
• How to build a prayer life that fits your heart and leads to joy

Favorite Scripture:

“Blessed is she who believed that the Lord’s promises to her would be fulfilled.”

—Luke 1:45

Connect with Rose:

🌐 Website: rosefolsom.com

📧 Email: [email protected]

🕊️ Free resource: available on her website

In this episode of The God Is Good Podcast, host Carol O’Brien sits down with Dana Nygaard, a Catholic therapist and speaker, to share her powerful story of healing and faith. From growing up in a controlling and traumatic home to finding herself in a marriage that mirrored her past, Dana’s journey reveals how God’s truth and stillness brought her from pain to peace. With honesty and grace, Dana opens up about how she learned to rely not on people—but on God alone—and how that trust transformed her life, her vocation, and her calling to help others break free from unhealthy patterns.

“Be still and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:11

In This Episode:

• Dana shares her early experiences growing up in a family marked by control and emotional pain.
• How her childhood patterns led her into an abusive marriage—and the priest who helped her see that God never calls us to be abused.
• The moment she learned to “be still” and truly know God’s peace.
• How faith, therapy, and God’s Word brought her healing, freedom, and a renewed purpose.
• Dana’s work today helping women heal attachment wounds, strengthen their faith, and prepare for healthy, Christ-centered marriages.

Key Scripture:

• “Be still and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:11
• “For I know the plans I have in mind for you…” — Jeremiah 29:11

Memorable Quotes:

• “I was doing my faith, not living it.”
• “God did not put you on this earth to be abused.”
• “Once I relied fully on God, everything shifted.”
• “I want women to know—they can be healed through God. I’m living proof.”

Connect with Dana:

🌐 dananygaard.com

🌐 clarityplease.com — take the Healthy Attachment Style quiz or schedule a session.

If this episode touched your heart:

💛 Share it with someone who needs hope.

💛 Follow The God Is Good Podcast for more stories of redemption and faith.

Thank you for joining the God Is Good Podcast, where host Carol O'Brien shares stories of everyday people whose encounters with Jesus have reignited their faith and transformed their lives. Whether you're a longtime listener or discovering us for the first time, we invite you to share our episodes with anyone who might be encouraged by these journeys of grace and hope.

“God is the rock of my heart, my portion forever. But those who are far from you perish; you destroy those unfaithful to you. As for me, to be near God is my good, to make the Lord God my refuge.” — Psalm 73:26-28

This special bonus episode features highlights from episodes six, seven, and eight. Each story offers a unique perspective on faith, resilience, and God’s unwavering love:

• Episode Six — LeighAnn’s Story: Striving For Jesus
  • Despite her achievements in academics, sports, and her career, LeighAnn struggled to find real worth and fulfillment outside of God.
  • During the winter of 2021, LeighAnn faced devastating personal losses, including her mother’s hospitalization and passing, and a marriage in crisis.
  • In her lowest moments, she realized her value was already placed in her by God. Through the support of her husband and sister, she experienced a transformation—moving from “stick figure” faith to a deep relationship with God at the center of her life.
  • Her story is a testament to the peace found in embracing divine love, especially amid heartbreak and adversity.
• Episode Seven — Abby’s Story: A Portrait of Hope Rising From Hardship
  • Abby recounts growing up in difficult circumstances, facing loneliness, risky decisions, and personal trauma, including being a victim of abuse.
  • Her experiences led to unhealthy relationships and choices, but she found hope through the kindness and compassion of a supportive faith community.
  • With the help of women from the Ladies Altar Society, Abby discovered her worthiness in God’s eyes and experienced a powerful spiritual renewal.
  • Abby’s story highlights the impact of loving community and God’s persistent presence, reminding us that hope and healing are possible even in the darkest times.
• Episode Eight — Belinda’s Testimony: In Jesus’ Arms
  • Belinda shares her experience of seeking identity in worldly achievements and navigating spiritual dryness despite professional success.
  • A heartfelt request from her child to be homeschooled became a turning point, leading Belinda to step away from her business and dedicate herself to family and faith.
  • Homeschooling her children became a journey of deeper spiritual commitment: daily prayer, liturgy, and learning together.
  • Belinda discovered a new vocation in intercessory prayer and found purpose and peace by surrendering to God’s call.

LeighAnn's Story - Striving for Jesus: S1E6 

Abby's Story - Communities of Love: S1E7

Belinda's Story - In Jesus' Arms: S1E8

Support the show

Our goal with this episode is to move at least one heart toward God -- is it yours? Let us know! And if you'd like to get involved by becoming a storyteller or donating to the movement, please visit or email us:

www.facebook.com/groups/godisgoodpodcast/
[email protected]

Some of our episodes mention the ACTS Retreat, which is an evangelization retreat from ACTS Missions in San Antonio, TX: www.actsmissions.org.

Welcome to the God is Good Podcast! Host Carol O’Brien speaks with Karen, an inspiring storyteller on a mission to unite Christians and reignite faith. In “Take My Hand,” Karen shares her personal journey from her Salvation Army roots, through moments of wandering and rediscovery, to embracing Catholicism and becoming a passionate advocate for Christian unity.

• Meet Karen: Karen, a convert to Catholicism, reflects on how her Salvation Army upbringing first introduced her to the joy of faith and community, and how her experiences shaped her commitment to helping others find Jesus.
• Childhood & Salvationist Roots: From a Lutheran baptism to a transformative encounter at a Salvation Army vacation Bible school, Karen tells of her early faith foundation and the impact of feeling truly seen and loved by God.
• Adolescent Challenges: Karen candidly discusses her college years, when she drifted from her faith, wrestled with shame, and eventually learned to accept God’s forgiveness and grace—discovering anew the power of self-forgiveness.
• Family Transformation: Through her faith journey, Karen’s rekindled relationship with God inspires her family—including her father and even her extended family—to return to church and rediscover their own faith.
• Spiritual Transitions: Karen and her husband’s search for a faith community leads them through Methodist and Catholic experiences, culminating in their joyful welcome into the Catholic Church during the 2022 Easter Vigil.
• Living a Faith-Filled Life: Today, Karen teaches at a Catholic high school, writes for CatholicMom.com and Living Faith Kids, and hosts her own podcast, “Stand. Kneel. Now What?” helping others stay on fire for Christ and encouraging young people to remain rooted in faith.
• Psalm 73—A Guiding Light: Karen’s favorite psalm reminds her (and listeners) that God is always present, even when life feels unfair or overwhelming—He holds our hands and guides us through every trial.

• “I realized that I could either carry God’s love for me, or I could carry my shame for the rest of my life. But I couldn’t carry them both at the same time.” – Karen
• “If we put our division aside, we could come together and just be this beautiful Christian family…sometimes cousins at the dining table that sometimes get along and sometimes fight.” – Karen
• "Look at all these other beautiful things that are all pointing to Jesus." – Carol 
• “You can’t light fires if you are not lighting your fire too.” – Karen
• “God is the rock of my heart, my portion forever.” – Psalm 73

• Podcast: : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stand-kneel-now-what/id1700467911
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stand_kneel_now_what/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Stand-Kneel-Now-What-Podcast/100094002187472/
• Catholic Mom website: https://www.catholicmom.com/

Support the show

Our goal with this episode is to move at least one heart toward God -- is it yours? Let us know! And if you'd like to get involved by becoming a storyteller or donating to the movement, please visit:

Web: godisgoodpodcast.com

Social: www.facebook.com/groups/godisgoodpodcast/

Some of our episodes mention the ACTS Retreat, which is an evangelization retreat from ACTS Missions in San Antonio, TX: www.actsmissions.org.

In this episode of the God Is Good Podcast, host Carol O'Brien shares the inspiring story of Ashley, a wife, mother, and author. Raised in a mixed religious household, Ashley's journey to finding a personal relationship with Jesus was filled with obstacles, including her father's absence, bullying, and abuse. Despite these adversities, an encounter with God's presence at the age of 16 radically transformed her life. Ashley shares how she found peace, self-worth, and a calling to write, culminating in the recent release of her book 'His Liberating Flame' on Audible. Ashley’s testimony is a moving reminder of God's unwavering love and the power of faith in overcoming life's deepest challenges.

00:00 Introduction to the God Is Good Podcast

00:47 Personal Testimony: Carol's Faith Journey

01:43 Introducing Today's Guest: Ashley

02:37 Ashley's Childhood Faith Foundation

05:40 Struggles and Family Challenges

07:58 A Turning Point: Rediscovering Faith

14:21 Supernatural Experience and Transformation

19:08 Life After Transformation: New Beginnings

20:27 Ashley's Writing Journey

22:24 Exciting Announcements and Final Thoughts

24:12 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Ashley Thompson

Blog: Nourishment Through Words

Books:

• Fallen Coins: A Lesson on the Blessings of Obedience
• His Liberating Flame
• His Liberating Flame Audiobook
• Romantic Rendezvous for the Soul: Pleasure that Makes You Whole
• Visions of Celestial Love

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Support the show

Our goal with this episode is to move at least one heart toward God -- is it yours? Let us know! And if you'd like to get involved by becoming a storyteller or donating to the movement, please visit:

Web: godisgoodpodcast.com

Social: www.facebook.com/groups/godisgoodpodcast/

Some of our episodes mention the ACTS Retreat, which is an evangelization retreat from ACTS Missions in San Antonio, TX: www.actsmissions.org.

Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt story from our newest storyteller, Andrea. This episode explores Andrea’s path from unreconciled grief to the radiant joy she now finds in her relationship with Jesus.

Andrea grew up in a Jewish household, shaped by tradition and family. The passing of her father marked a turning point, leaving her with unresolved grief and a yearning for answers that would remain with her for years.

Driven by pain and a longing for comfort, Andrea turned to New Age practices in hopes of soothing her bruised spirit. For decades, these beliefs promised healing but left her feeling unloved and distant from the true peace she sought.

Years later, the loss of Andrea’s husband deepened her sorrow but also awoke a desire for something different for her children—a future not defined by anger and emptiness. She pursued grief counseling, determined to break the cycle and offer hope to her family.

During the global epidemic, Andrea’s life took an unexpected turn. A chance encounter introduced her to authentic Christianity and the transformative love of Jesus. Seeds of faith, long dormant, began to take root in fertile ground.

Andrea’s story is one of radical change: where grief and anger once ruled, now there is fire and devotion. She is “on fire for Jesus,” committed to sharing the Good News and helping others discover the hope that transformed her own life.

·    The power of faith to heal deep wounds and unresolved grief

·    The dangers of spiritual paths that promise peace but leave emptiness

·    The importance of seeking wise counsel and support during seasons of loss

·    How a personal relationship with Jesus can change everything

·    Andrea’s inspiring mission to spread the message of hope and grace

Support the show

Our goal with this episode is to move at least one heart toward God -- is it yours? Let us know! And if you'd like to get involved by becoming a storyteller or donating to the movement, please visit:

Web: godisgoodpodcast.com

Social: www.facebook.com/groups/godisgoodpodcast/

Some of our episodes mention the ACTS Retreat, which is an evangelization retreat from ACTS Missions in San Antonio, TX: www.actsmissions.org.

In this heartfelt episode of The God is Good Podcast, we welcome our newest storyteller, Sharon.

Sharon always felt Jesus’ presence—but for much of her life, she saw God as a disciplinarian, not a loving Father. After her parents’ divorce, she turned to the world for comfort: drugs, destructive choices, and a marriage that left her empty. But even in the darkest places, God never let her go.

Her return to Christ marked a radical turning point. Today, Sharon is no longer lukewarm—she is on fire for Jesus. As a business owner, podcast host, and bold believer, Sharon’s life radiates the grace and goodness of God.

Her testimony will challenge, encourage, and inspire anyone who’s ever wondered if God can redeem their story. (Spoiler: He can.)

What You’ll Hear:

• Sharon’s early experiences with faith and misconceptions about God
• The pain and rebellion that followed her parents’ divorce
• A series of poor choices that led to poor decisions
• The transformational dream that helped her turn back to Jesus
• How her life and purpose were completely restored when she made Jesus her everything
• An invitation to share your own story or support the mission

Get Involved:

Whether you're ready to share your story or just want to support the podcast, we’d love to connect with you.

• Be a storyteller – even if you’re unsure, reach out!
• Follow, like, and share this episode
• Support us financially to keep the podcast going

Final Encouragement:

Sharon’s story is a beautiful reminder that no matter where you've been or what you've done—God is good, and He’s not done with you yet.

Support the show

Our goal with this episode is to move at least one heart toward God -- is it yours? Let us know! And if you'd like to get involved by becoming a storyteller or donating to the movement, please visit:

Web: godisgoodpodcast.com
Social: www.facebook.com/groups/godisgoodpodcast/

Some of our episodes mention the ACTS Retreat, which is an evangelization retreat from ACTS Missions in San Antonio, TX: www.actsmissions.org.

In this powerful episode, our newest storyteller shares her extraordinary testimony of faith, healing, and purpose. Gena opens up about growing up with a distant father, navigating broken family relationships, and eventually facing a life-altering cancer scare during her pregnancy. Through it all, she found her identity and strength in God.

Her story is one of heartbreak transformed into hope and calling. Gena shares how surrendering fully to God in a moment of helplessness led to a peace that changed everything. Now, as a passionate Christian writer and teacher, she encourages others—especially women in ministry and parents with adult children—to trust God’s goodness and embrace their unique calling.

Gena's story is an inspiring take on how God can use anyone - the brokenhearted, the weak, the poor in spirit - to become ambassadors for His good.

🗝️ Key Takeaways:

• Faith Foundations: How Gena’s early exposure to faith through her grandmother shaped her journey, despite spiritual fragmentation in her family.
• Father Wounds & Faith: Gena explores how her distant relationship with her father impacted her view of God and her sense of self-worth.
• Turning Point: Facing a cancer diagnosis during pregnancy became a moment of complete surrender and spiritual transformation.
• Purpose in Pain: Gena discusses how her trials led her to ministry, authorship, and a calling to support women in leadership.
• Favorite Scripture: John 4:39 – The Woman at the Well. Gena unpacks the beauty of redemption and testimony in this powerful verse.
• Parenting & Surrender: Encouragement for parents of adult children—on love, letting go, and trusting God with their hearts.

📚 Resources Mentioned:

Books by Gena B. McCown:

• Women’s Ministry with Purpose
• Still Here and Struggling to Serve
• Deep Forgiveness (Devotional)

Available on: Amazon
Website: genabmccown.com

🔔 Subscribe & Connect:

If Gena’s story encouraged you, please consider subscribing, rating, and sharing this episode! Your support helps us move more hearts toward Jesus.

📧 The Shows Website: GodisGoodPodcast.com

 🎧 Follow us on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
📣 Next Episode Teaser: Don’t miss our next guest, whose story of transformation from lukewarm to on fire will uplift your soul.

🙏 Final Word:

“As long as they have breath, I will love them and I will pray for them.” – Gena B. McCown

Support the show

Our goal with this episode is to move at least one heart toward God -- is it yours? Let us know! And if you'd like to get involved by becoming a storyteller or donating to the movement, please visit:

Web: godisgoodpodcast.com
Social: www.facebook.com/groups/godisgoodpodcast/

Some of our episodes mention the ACTS Retreat, which is an evangelization retreat from ACTS Missions in San Antonio, TX: www.actsmissions.org.