The NFP Podcast

In this honest and raw episode of the NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy dive into the challenges of practicing Natural Family Planning. From the physical discomforts of tracking fertility signs to the emotional toll it can take on relationships, they explore why NFP is not always the easy or idealized path it’s sometimes made out to be. Together, they also reflect on the spiritual aspects of NFP—how it can deepen faith, but also stretch it in unexpected ways. Whether you’re just starting out with NFP or have been practicing for years, this episode offers an open conversation about the realities of living NFP day-to-day, and how to find strength and grace amid the difficulties. Tune in for practical advice, personal stories, and a dose of solidarity for anyone walking this challenging, yet beautiful, path.

Resources:

1. My Catholic Doctor: https://mycatholicdoctor.com/

2. JPII Healing Center: https://jpiihealingcenter.org/

In this episode of the NFP Podcast, hosts Emily and Amy sit down with Dr. Mike Manhart, PhD, Board Chair and Senior Scientific Consultant for the Couple to Couple League. Together, they dive into the science behind the Sympto-Thermal Method of Natural Family Planning (NFP), exploring the truth about tracking basal body temperature and debunking common myths. Dr. Manhart also shares his personal journey with NFP—how discovering and embracing this method not only transformed his understanding of fertility but also reshaped his worldview and marriage. Whether you're new to NFP or have been practicing for years, this conversation offers valuable insights into using NFP through all seasons of married life. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on the intersection of science, faith, and marriage!

Resources:

1. https://ccli.org/

2. Peak Day App: https://peakday.com/try/

3. Learn NFP: https://ccli.org/learn-nfp-from-ccl/

4. Research articles:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/368673367_The_Association_of_Family_Planning_Methods_With_the_Odds_of_Divorce_Among_Women_in_the_2015-2019_National_Survey_of_Family_Growth

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7804516/

https://www.contraceptionjournal.org/article/S0010-7824(22)00213-X/abstract

In this episode of the NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily dive deep into the intersection of faith, family life, and the upcoming 2024 United States presidential election. With the nation facing an intense election cycle, Amy and Emily reflect on how we can find peace and guidance in uncertain times, especially when it comes to family size and fertility. They explore the Blessed Mother’s example of trust and surrender to God’s will, offering inspiration for couples navigating the joys and challenges of natural family planning.

The conversation also turns to the current political landscape. As the election season heats up, Amy and Emily discuss how candidates can better address the unique needs of women, especially when it comes to reproductive health, family support, and policies that empower families to flourish. Tune in for an insightful conversation that blends faith, family, and politics with a focus on creative, compassionate solutions for a better future.

In this thought-provoking episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily take on a challenging but essential topic: same-sex attraction, relationships, and an individual's vocation to love. With sensitivity and compassion, they explore how each person's call to love is unique while offering a perspective grounded in truth, faith, and respect for all. Together, they discuss how these topics intersect with family life, the desire for children, and the deep human yearning for connection. Tune in for a conversation that brings truth and love into the light, guiding listeners through a meaningful and insightful discussion.

Resources:

Courage (for those struggling with same-sex attraction): https://couragerc.org/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0049089X12000610?via%3Dihub

https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/pillars/sexuality-and-family/page/2/

https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2012/06/5640/

https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2012/08/6065/

"Do not be afraid when love requires sacrifice!" - Saint JPII

In this heartfelt episode of The NFP Podcast, Emily and Amy sit down with Landon and Izzy, a young married couple whose love story is rooted in faith and the beauty of human sexuality. Landon and Izzy share how their college journeys led them to one another and how the Lord guided them toward the sacrament of marriage. Tune in to hear their inspiring testimony of embracing chastity throughout their dating, engagement, and now married life, living out the truth of God's design for love and marriage. This episode is filled with wisdom, grace, and the power of the Holy Spirit!

Resources:

Restore the Glory: https://www.restoretheglorypodcast.com/episodes

Jason Evert: https://chastity.com/

Christopher West: https://askchristopherwest.com/

Institute for Family Studies: https://ifstudies.org/

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to be a Natural Family Planning (NFP) teacher. They share personal insights into the challenges and joys of guiding couples through NFP, addressing some of the most common misconceptions they’ve encountered along the way. From misunderstandings about its effectiveness to the media's portrayal of NFP, Amy and Emily tackle the criticisms head-on. Together, they break down the myths, offer fresh perspectives, and share the truth about how NFP empowers couples. Tune in to hear their thoughtful discussion on the real impact NFP has on relationships and why it’s more than just a method—it’s a philosophy rooted in respect for life and love.

In this episode of The NFP Podcast, Amy delves into the science behind conception, explaining when human life comes into existence. She explores various family planning methods, highlighting how they influence conception and the ethical considerations involved. Amy also walks listeners through the available Natural Family Planning (NFP) options, offering insight into how these methods align with scientific and philosophical beliefs. Drawing from Christian perspectives, she discusses the sacredness of the moment of conception and its significance within the faith. Whether you're curious about the science or the spirituality behind conception, this episode will give you a well-rounded understanding of this complex and important topic.

Sources:

https://www.catholic.com/magazine/print-edition/when-babies-get-their-souls https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK26843/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK26843/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2672893/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4355078/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11131989/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK26843/

In this heartfelt episode of The NFP Podcast, Emily and Amy sit down with Jennifer, a courageous woman who shares her powerful story of love, life, and loss. Jennifer opens up about her journey through miscarriage, and how Natural Family Planning (NFP) became a source of healing and hope as she embraced God’s plan for her family. Her story is a beautiful blend of sorrow and joy, offering a deep reminder that faith and love can guide us through even in life's most challenging moments. We hope Jennifer’s testimony will encourage and inspire you on your path.

Resources:

Pope Paul VI Institute for Restorative Reproductive Medicine https://popepaulvi.com/national-center-for-womens-health/

Fr Chad Ripperger's book Deliverance Prayers which includes prayers to pray to break Masonic curses https://a.co/d/8NXtudR Diocesan Exorcists https://aleteia.org/2017/10/28/how-to-contact-an-actual-exorcist

Novenas to the Holy Spirit https://www.praymorenovenas.com/novena-to-the-holy-spirit https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/novena-to-the-holy-spirit-for-the-seven-gifts-309 https://ascensionpress.com/pages/novena-to-the-holy-spirit?srsltid=AfmBOoobznM1N91Dzfn333N3FvqJgtcn_uUtdGvjS01nmnW-ymLr0PL5

In this thought-provoking episode of The NFP Podcast, hosts Amy and Emily tackle a crucial and often misunderstood topic: why tubal ligations and vasectomies are not morally acceptable for Christian couples. Drawing from both theological teachings and real-life experiences, they explain why permanent sterilization goes against the principles of marital unity and openness to life. For couples seeking to avoid pregnancy, Amy and Emily also share Natural Family Planning (NFP) alternatives that respect the sacredness of life while helping couples responsibly manage their family size. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that offers practical, faith-based solutions for those facing serious reasons to avoid pregnancy without compromising their values.

Resource from the National Bioethics Center:

https://www.ncbcenter.org/making-sense-of-bioethics-cms/column-043-a-future-pregnancy-would-be-too-risky

Due to some technical difficulties, we are rereleasing Emily's NFP story! We hope you enjoy this episode!

In this heartfelt episode of The NFP Podcast, Emily shares her personal story, detailing the reproductive health issues she faced and the frustration of not finding the answers she needed.

Discover how Emily's path took a transformative turn when she began working with cooperative reproductive health physicians who were dedicated to addressing the root causes of her health problems. Through patience, perseverance, and a holistic approach, Emily overcame her struggles and was blessed with two beautiful children.

Join us as Emily opens up about how her beliefs and understanding of reproductive health and family planning evolved. This episode is a testament to the power of informed choices and the importance of finding a supportive and knowledgeable healthcare team.

Tune in for a story of hope, resilience, and the profound difference the right support and information can make in your reproductive health journey.