The EquipCast

Most parishes form their people in the faith, but do they truly teach individuals how to pray, help them understand and actively engage with the sacraments, and guide them in making practical, moral changes in the daily lives? Developing the habits of a disciple can be challenging, and it happens most effectively within a community where people support and challenge one another to grow as followers of Jesus.

In today’s conversation, Jodi Phillips and Michelle Zuhlke join me to discuss the faith formation step of building a clear path for discipleship. We explore the importance of small groups in fostering spiritual growth, emphasizing the role of personal relationships and mentorship.

[01:27] Deep Dive into Faith Formation

For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship, or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases.

Also, if you were inspired by Michelle, check out Our Catholic Family.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Does your parish have Alpha, Christ Life, a parish retreat, or some other initiative that creates an opportunity for people to hear about Jesus, reflect on their faith, and take a step towards a real and lasting relationship with him? The Clear Path step Conversion Moment is designed to help individuals encounter Jesus and make a personal decision to follow Him by offering a clear proclamation of the Gospel.

My guest, Marlo Monico, shares her experience building and sustaining a Conversion Moment. She shares stories of significant personal transformations and emphasizes the importance of hospitality, community, and continuous invitation in evangelization efforts.

[01:30] Deep Dive into Conversion Moments

For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship, or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases. Also, here our Options for Conversion Moments guide.

If you were inspired by Marlo, check out St. Columbkille’s Alpha.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Do you have a way to introduce your non-practicing friends and family members to your faith community that doesn’t involve inviting them to Mass or other gatherings that might make them feel isolated? Does your parish offer a space where you can meet and build trusting relationships with those distant from their faith? The Clear Path step Relational Outreach is designed for just that. My guests, Katie Winkler and Beth Carlson, share their experience at the JPII Newman Center, where they’ve created spaces for authentic friendships to flourish.

They discuss the importance of intentionality in outreach, creating welcoming environments, and the role of personal stories and experiences in building genuine connections. Katie and Beth also highlight the challenges and learning opportunities in outreach efforts, emphasizing the need for patience and persistence in forming meaningful relationships.

[05:46] Creating Welcoming Events

For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship, or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases.

If you were inspired by Katie and Beth, take a look at JPIIOmaha.org.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Do you believe that God continues to work even when you don’t? In my own life, I’ve struggled with the idea that rest has to be earned, that I can only rest once everything on my to-do list is checked off. But the Christian vision is different.

God’s work doesn’t stop when we rest. In fact, our rest is a testament to our trust in His ongoing work. Join me as we explore the beauty of working from rest, drawing examples from Jesus’s life, and discover practical ways to incorporate this principle into your daily routine.

[01:17] Jesus' Example of Rest

Check out The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Small groups are vital for parish renewal—you might even be part of one yourself. But is your small group thriving and growing, or is it feeling a bit stagnant? Do you find it challenging to reach beyond the usual participants? And most importantly, are your small groups truly helping people grow in their faith journey?

Today, I chat with Michael Hall, author of Intentional Accompaniment and a seasoned leader with Catholic Christian Outreach of Canada. Michael has a wealth of experience building and sustaining healthy small group movements, and he’s here to share some of the strategies and mindsets that can transform your small group from a stagnant gathering into a dynamic, missionary force.

Whether you’re leading a small group, coordinating them for your parish, or simply a passionate member of one, this conversation is full of insights that can help you breathe new life into your small group ministry and make a real impact in your community.

Join us as we dive into:

Check out CCO!

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Have you ever been asked for help but then felt like you were just giving unwanted advice? It’s tough to know how to make your words count. On my team, we use an approach called coaching that focuses on active listening to really support and empower the clergy and lay leaders we work with. We’ve also found that this method can make you a better friend.

Today, I bring you a live coaching session with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We explore how coaching principles like active listening, asking the right questions, and encouraging growth can transform not only professional roles but also personal friendships. You will also hear Fr. Schilmoeller share his experiences and strategies for promoting vocations. Whether you’re interested in coaching, vocations, or simply becoming a better friend, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to support and uplift those around you more effectively.

[02:34] Coaching Session Overview

Resources mentioned in this episode:

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Is it okay to set boundaries in ministry work? How do we balance being “all things to all people” (1 Cor 9:22) with the need for personal limits? Today’s guest believes that not only is it okay to establish boundaries—it’s essential.

Join me as I sit down with John Gencarelli, Director of Youth and Adult Evangelization at St. Phillip Neri-Blessed Sacrament & Holy Name Parishes in Omaha. John opens up about his experience with burnout and shares how setting boundaries transformed his approach to ministry. By tracking his work hours, taking regular days off, and weaving prayer into his daily routine, John discovered how to protect his well-being while still serving effectively. He also highlights the importance of balancing family time with ministry and how thoughtful planning plays a key role in this. Ultimately, John reminds us that it’s God who saves, not us, and setting boundaries allows us to trust in His plan, ensuring that we serve effectively without burning out.

Tune in and learn to:

Mentioned in this episode: Revive Parishes.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Do you find it hard to maintain enthusiasm for evangelization? You’re not alone. Many of us in ministry face moments of profound fatigue and discouragement. But let me share something with you: the key to reigniting that passion lies in rediscovering the love and hope gifted by God which first called us to this mission.

Yes, the challenges are real, but so is the power of God’s plan. Lean into that, and you’ll find your enthusiasm renewed and your mission reinvigorated.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by trying to be perfect? I mean, Jesus did tell us to “be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Mt. 5:48), and Paul certainly took this seriously as he gladly “spent and consumed himself for souls” (2 Cor 12:15). But sometimes, I think the pursuit of perfection leaves behind God’s plan for our lives. In fact, living a holy life might mean embracing the imperfection around us.

Today’s guest, Colleen Carroll Campbell, former journalist and presidential speechwriter and author of The Heart of Perfection tells us what she has learned on this topic. Tune in to hear:

To hear more from Colleen, go to Colleen-Campbell.com or grab her book The Heart of Perfection.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha

Theology of the Body has the power to deeply impact how we approach sexual identity and self-worth. As a father, I understand how tough it can be to navigate these complex topics with today’s youth. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to two amazing missionaries, Marshall and Reese, from The Culture Project.

In this episode, they share their personal mission to spread the gospel and promote sexual integrity among young people. We dive into the importance of recognizing human dignity and how to have meaningful conversations with youth about challenging issues like sexual identity and social media. Plus, Marshall and Reese offer practical advice for parents, teachers, and mentors on how to support and guide young people in their faith and moral growth. This episode is packed with hope and encouragement, giving you the tools to better connect with and support the young people in your life.

[01:06] Meet Marshall and Reese

Check out The Culture Project! Or schedule them by emailing [email protected].

Also, click here to get Feeding the Mouth that Bites You.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha