The Rebuilt Parish Podcast

By Rebuilt ParishReligion & Spirituality Christianity

The Rebuilt Parish Podcast episodes

August 13172| How Small Parish Changes Build Lasting Momentum
What can a parish accomplish in less than a year when its leaders are willing to pray, experiment, and take the next right step?
In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson speaks with Father Norm Douglas and Deacon Andy Davis of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Akron, Ohio. Since beginning Rebuilt Parish Coaching, their parish has formed a strategic leadership team, introduced message series, strengthened collaboration with the pastoral council, developed small groups, expanded digital outreach, and begun creating a more consistent message across the parish and school.
Father Norm and Deacon Andy share how they navigated resistance to change without leaving people behind, built momentum through smaller and more manageable initiatives, and learned to plan ahead rather than responding to each season at the last minute.
Their experience offers a hopeful reminder for parish leaders: meaningful progress does not always begin with one enormous change. Often, it begins with prayer, the right people, and the courage to experiment.
Read the First Chapter Free
Every person is searching for something more: more meaning, more purpose, and more of the life God created us to experience.
In their new book, Jesus, the Rich Young Man, and the Meaning of Life, Fr. Michael White and Tom Corcoran explore Jesus’ encounter with the rich young man and what it teaches us about faith, generosity, surrender, and the things we hold most tightly.
Read the first chapter for free at rebuiltparish.com/book and begin reflecting on how this Gospel encounter could speak to you, your leadership, and your parish.
In This Episode
How St. Vincent de Paul began responding to declining attendance
Why the parish created a strategic leadership team
How the leadership team and pastoral council work together
Why frequent leadership meetings improve focus and follow-through
How message series create consistency without limiting a preacher’s voice
Ways to extend one message across Mass, small groups, meetings, faith formation, and school
How annual planning helps parish leaders move beyond last-minute preparation
Why experimentation is essential for parish growth
How small, achievable changes can build momentum
Encouragement for leaders discerning their parish’s next right step
Timestamps
00:03 Meet Father Norm and Deacon Andy
01:24 Two Different Perspectives on Parish Leadership
03:37 The Story of St. Vincent de Paul Parish
06:00 Father Norm’s Unexpected Arrival
07:24 Beginning Coaching Without Changing Everything
09:04 Forming a Strategic Leadership Team
10:35 Why the Leadership Team Meets Weekly
12:37 Connecting the Pastoral Council and Leadership Team
14:57 Introducing Message Series
18:23 Making Prayer More Than an Agenda Item
19:47 Bringing One Message Across the Parish
22:07 Connecting the Message to the Parish School
23:18 The Value of Annual Planning
25:04 Moving Beyond Last-Minute Ministry
26:16 Experimenting with Podcasts and Video
28:34 The Common Thread: Do Not Be Afraid
29:45 Choosing the Next Right Step
31:11 Learning from Practices That Work
33:27 Building Momentum Through Small Changes
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“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!

https://www.rebuiltparish.com/
facebook.com/rebuiltparish
instagram.com/rebuiltparish
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parish leadership, Catholic parish growth, parish coaching, strategic leadership team, pastoral council, message series, Catholic evangelization, parish planning, annual ministry plan, parish school, small groups, leadership development, parish communication, discipleship, church growth, St. Vincent de Paul Akron, Father Norm Douglas, Deacon Andy Davis, Rebuilt Parish
38 min
August 06171| What Parish Leaders Can Learn from a Generous Giver
What helps a parishioner move from simply attending a parish to investing deeply in its mission?
In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson and Tom Corcoran sit down with Nativity parishioner, real estate investor, and philanthropist Wayne Gioioso. Wayne offers parish leaders a valuable perspective from the other side of the stewardship conversation: what inspires someone to give, what builds trust, and what pastors should understand before making an invitation.
Wayne shares how Scripture, mentors, Catholic education, and the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises shaped his faith and approach to generosity. He also explains how the principles that guided his business life, including focus, discipline, authenticity, and delayed gratification, became part of the framework he uses when deciding where and how to give.
For pastors and parish leaders who feel uncomfortable discussing money, Wayne offers clear encouragement. Generous parishioners are often willing to meet, listen, and help when they believe in the mission and trust the person making the invitation. The key is to build real relationships, communicate authentically, and invite people to participate without using pressure or guilt.
This conversation will help parish leaders better understand the hearts and perspectives of high-capacity givers while offering practical wisdom for building a healthier culture of generosity.
Read the First Chapter Free
Every person is searching for something more: more meaning, more purpose, and more of the life God created us to experience.
In their new book, Jesus, the Rich Young Man, and the Meaning of Life, Fr. Michael White and Tom Corcoran explore Jesus’ encounter with the rich young man and what it teaches us about faith, generosity, surrender, and the things we hold most tightly.
Read the first chapter for free at rebuiltparish.com/book and begin reflecting on how this Gospel encounter could speak to you, your leadership, and your parish.
Key Points
Why high-capacity givers want to understand and trust the mission
How a parishioner’s faith formation shapes generosity
Why relationships should come before financial invitations
What authenticity looks like from a giver’s perspective
How pastors can overcome their fear of asking
Why parish leaders should invite rather than pressure
How a clear vision helps people give with confidence
Why generous people often bring their professional frameworks into their giving
The importance of focusing resources where they can make the greatest impact
How Catholic education and spiritual mentors can plant lifelong seeds
Why an initial “no” may not be the end of the conversation
How giving can deepen a parishioner’s relationship with God and the Church
Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction
00:38 – Wayne’s Family and Professional Background
02:29 – Finding His Path into Real Estate
04:40 – Wisdom, Discipline, and Delayed Gratification
08:14 – Developing a Focused Business Model
09:44 – Avoiding Ego and Shiny Objects
11:08 – Wayne’s Faith Background
13:40 – Reading the Gospel of John to His Grandfather
15:45 – Rediscovering Scripture
16:14 – The Influence of a Spiritual Director
17:18 – The Ignatian Spiritual Exercises
19:22 – Learning Generosity Through Mentorship
20:53 – A Teacher Who Planted a Seed
23:16 – The Impact of Catholic Education
24:02 – Developing a Framework for Giving
25:20 – Giving from What You Have Received
26:07 – The Joy and Sacrifice of Generosity
27:17 – A Memorable Invitation to Support Nativity
30:49 – The More You Give, the More You Receive
32:02 – Focused and Intentional Philanthropy
35:29 – Understanding How Givers Think
36:24 – How Wayne Found Nativity
40:53 – Generosity Beyond Financial Gifts
41:49 – Advice for Pastors Asking for Support
42:28 – Why Authenticity Matters
45:12 – Building Relationships Before Making an Ask
45:47 – Overcoming the Fear of Asking
47:25 – Inviting Without Guilt or Pressure
49:09 – Final Encouragement for Parish Leaders
A Practical Takeaway for Pastors
Pastors do not need to become professional fundraisers. They do need to know their people.
Spend time with parishioners. Listen to their stories, understand what matters to them, and share clearly where God is leading the parish. When the relationship and mission are authentic, an invitation to give can become an opportunity for deeper discipleship rather than an uncomfortable transaction.
Some parishioners may respond immediately. Others may need time to pray, discern, or see the vision more clearly. A respectful invitation can plant a seed that bears fruit well beyond the first conversation.
Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!

“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!

https://www.rebuiltparish.com/
facebook.com/rebuiltparish
instagram.com/rebuiltparish
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/
https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish

Catholic stewardship, parish stewardship, high-capacity givers, major gifts, Catholic philanthropy, parish fundraising, church fundraising, stewardship for pastors, Catholic pastors, parish leadership, Catholic parish leaders, donor relationships, building donor relationships, asking parishioners for money, generosity and faith, Christian generosity, Catholic generosity, culture of generosity, stewardship as discipleship, authentic leadership, relational ministry, parish vision, faith and business, Catholic business leader, Catholic entrepreneur, Catholic education, Ignatian spirituality, Ignatian Spiritual Exercises, Gospel of John, Book of Proverbs, Jesus and the rich young man, Church of the Nativity, Rebuilt Parish, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Wayne Gioioso, Tom Corcoran, Melissa Wilkinson
54 min
July 30 170| Bill Baird on Activating the Silent Majority in Your Parish
In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with Bill Baird, Rebuilt Parish’s new Executive Director. Bill has been part of Rebuilt for years as a coach, parishioner at Nativity, and leader, bringing experience from the business world, diocesan leadership, parish consulting, and parish coaching.
Bill shares how God has shaped his path from finance to parish renewal, what he is hearing from pastors and parish leaders across the country, and why Rebuilt’s work begins with accompanying pastors and their teams. Together, Melissa and Bill talk about the challenges facing parishes today, the call to look beyond the four walls, the importance of activating the “silent majority,” and how generosity, leadership, and prayer all play a role in making disciples.
This conversation is full of encouragement for pastors, parish staff, and ministry leaders who are longing to see renewal take root in their communities.
To connect with Bill Baird directly, email [email protected].
To join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list and be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speakers, and event updates, visit rebuiltparish.com/conference.
Timestamps
00:04 Introduction to Bill Baird
01:00 Bill’s background in business, diocesan leadership, and parish renewal
03:09 Understanding parish life and diocesan life
04:48 Bill’s faith formation and diaconate studies
06:53 The Institute for Evangelization and the road to Emmaus
09:08 Challenges facing parish leaders today
11:16 Looking beyond the four walls of the parish
12:05 Serving the whole community, not just Catholics
15:36 Meeting young families where they are
17:24 Demystifying evangelization
19:01 The growth of Rebuilt parish coaching
20:22 Activating the silent majority
22:50 Loving those who resist change
24:26 Giving as an act of worship
28:27 How donor generosity supports parish renewal
31:38 What transformation looks like in coaching
33:50 Helping pastors rediscover joy in their priesthood
35:38 Building teams around the pastor
38:52 The momentum of the Rebuilt Conference
39:17 Why pastors and teams should come to the conference
46:35 What Bill is praying for as Rebuilt looks ahead
48:22 Prayer as the foundation of Rebuilt’s work
Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!
“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!
https://www.rebuiltparish.com/
facebook.com/rebuiltparish
instagram.com/rebuiltparish
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/
https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish
Catholic parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish, parish coaching, Catholic leadership, Catholic podcast, parish transformation, Bill Baird, Catholic evangelization, discipleship, Catholic discipleship, parish leadership, Catholic pastors, parish staff, parish teams, parish renewal movement, Church of the Nativity, Catholic parish growth, parish mission, Catholic Church renewal, Rebuilt Conference, Catholic generosity, stewardship, giving as worship, Catholic ministry, evangelization strategy, parish culture, small groups, weekend experience, Catholic community, ministry leadership

53 min
July 23 169| How Rebuilt Speakers Helped St. Hilary Take the Next Step
What does it actually look like to invite a Rebuilt Parish speaker into your parish?
In this episode of The Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson talks with Fr. Roger Gustafson, pastor of St. Hilary Parish in Tiburon, California, about his experience bringing multiple Rebuilt speakers to his parish over time. Fr. Roger shares how these speaking events helped strengthen parish vision, encourage parishioners, and support the work of parish renewal at St. Hilary.
A major focus of the conversation is Tom Corcoran’s Rebuilt Faith mission and the way it helped parishioners better understand discipleship, not as an abstract idea, but as a practical invitation to follow Jesus more intentionally. Through clear teaching, real parish experience, and a framework that emerged through the conversation, Fr. Roger reflects on how outside voices can help reinforce the mission pastors are already trying to lead.
This episode is especially helpful for pastors, parish staff, and Catholic ministry leaders who are wondering whether a Rebuilt speaker, parish mission, or faith formation event could help their parish take a next step.
Join us for the next Rebuilt Conference and experience practical formation, encouragement, and renewal alongside parish leaders from across the country. Rebuiltconference.com
Timestamps
00:00 — Welcome to The Rebuilt Parish Podcast
01:00 — Meet Fr. Roger Gustafon of St. Hilary Parish
03:00 — Why St. Hilary invited Rebuilt speakers to the parish
06:00 — The impact of bringing in outside voices
09:00 — What Tom Corcoran brought through the Rebuilt Faith mission
13:00 — Helping parishioners understand discipleship more clearly
17:00 — The framework for parish transformation that emerged
21:00 — How multiple Rebuilt speakers helped build momentum
25:00 — What other pastors should know before inviting a speaker
29:00 — How parish missions can support renewal and next steps
32:00 — Final encouragement for parish leaders

Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!

“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!
https://www.rebuiltparish.com/
facebook.com/rebuiltparish
instagram.com/rebuiltparish
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/
https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish

Catholic parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, parish renewal podcast, Catholic parish leadership, Catholic parish mission, Catholic parish speakers, Tom Corcoran, Rebuilt Faith, Fr. Roger Gustafon, St. Hilary Parish Tiburon, Catholic discipleship, parish discipleship, Catholic evangelization, parish transformation, Catholic pastors, parish staff, Catholic ministry leaders, parish growth, Catholic parish coaching, Church of the Nativity, Catholic leadership, Catholic faith formation, parish mission speaker, Catholic parish mission speaker, Catholic Church renewal, discipleship in the Catholic Church
33 min
July 16 168| How This Parish Reached 10,000 Instagram Followers
On this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa welcomes back Abby Daniels and introduces Andrea Zubiri-Flynn from St. Joseph Catholic Church in Libertyville, Illinois, to talk about a milestone many parishes dream about: reaching 10,000 followers on Instagram.
Abby and Andrea share how their parish moved from simply posting announcements to creating intentional, engaging, and mission-focused content that helps them reach the next generation, connect with parishioners, and grow wider online. They talk about the value of real photos, parishioner stories, clergy involvement, trending content, and building a media ministry that includes multiple generations.
This conversation is full of practical encouragement for parish leaders who know social media matters but feel overwhelmed by where to begin. Abby and Andrea remind us that digital outreach does not have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with taking one photo, sharing one moment, answering one DM, and trusting that God can work even through the algorithm.
Follow St. Joseph Catholic Church in Libertyville, Illinois on Instagram @sjlibertyville to see examples of the posts, reels, and parish communications Abby and Andrea discussed in this episode.
Join us for the next Rebuilt Conference and experience practical formation, encouragement, and renewal alongside parish leaders from across the country. Rebuiltconference.com
Timestamps:
00:03 – Welcome back, Abby, and welcome, Andrea
00:29 – Why this episode is focused on parish social media growth
00:59 – Abby reintroduces herself and her role at St. Joe’s
01:27 – Andrea introduces herself and her communications role
01:51 – What reaching 10,000 Instagram followers meant to the team
03:37 – The Taylor Swift reel and using cultural moments creatively
05:35 – Shifting from announcements to intentional engagement
07:47 – Moving from “asking” to “giving” on social media
09:14 – What kinds of posts perform best
10:00 – Interactive posts and building community conversation
11:20 – Why real photos matter more than polished flyers
12:29 – Making parishioners feel seen online
13:53 – Using trending audio and social media trends carefully
16:57 – First steps for parishes that feel overwhelmed by social media
18:50 – Creating content that is engaging and still points to Jesus
22:35 – Social media as a welcoming front door to parish life
23:29 – Systems, habits, and planning rhythms for consistency
24:31 – Using a content calendar and an “eight-to-one” nourishment ratio
25:04 – Building a media ministry and layers of leaders
26:32 – Involving teens and multiple generations in content creation
28:31 – How Instagram growth is leading to deeper engagement
29:35 – DMs as a new kind of parish office
31:35 – Encouragement for pastors and parish leaders who feel unsure
37:01 – Abby’s experience at the Rebuilt Conference
39:29 – Professional growth, personal encounter, and parish renewal
40:59 – Final encouragement and where to follow St. Joe’s
Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!

“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!

https://www.rebuiltparish.com/
facebook.com/rebuiltparish
instagram.com/rebuiltparish
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/
https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish

Catholic parish social media, parish Instagram growth, Catholic Instagram, parish communications, church communications, Catholic communications, digital evangelization, Catholic digital outreach, parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, St. Joseph Catholic Church Libertyville, Abby Daniels, Andrea Severe Flynn, reaching the next generation, Catholic youth ministry, parish media ministry, Catholic leadership, parish leadership, Catholic parish growth, grow wider, grow deeper, layers of leaders, church social media strategy, Instagram for churches, Catholic evangelization, Catholic parish marketing, Catholic parish outreach, parish engagement, social media ministry, digital discipleship

45 min
July 09 167| What Parish Leaders Can Learn from Faithful Business Leaders | ft. Frank Kelly III
In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson and Tom Corcoran sit down with Frank Kelly III of Kelly Benefits for a conversation about faith, business, leadership, and evangelization in everyday life. Frank shares how his faith moved from his head to his heart during his college lacrosse years, how the Holy Spirit led him back home to Baltimore and into the family business, and how Kelly Benefits has grown with a mission rooted in honoring God and blessing people.
This conversation is a powerful one to share with parishioners, especially those living out their faith in the workplace. Frank reminds us that discipleship is not limited to church ministry. Whether in business, family, athletics, leadership, or everyday conversations, we are invited to love God, love others, and go make disciples.
To learn more about Frank, his story, his speaking, and his books, visit FrankKellyIII.com. Frank’s website includes more about his leadership, faith, family, and business background, as well as access to his books, including Love and Go, Influence and The Creator’s Game, and Look & See.
00:03 – Welcome and introduction to Frank Kelly III
00:43 – Frank shares his background, family, and the start of Kelly Benefits
03:28 – Living an integrated life of faith
04:00 – Frank’s college conversion story through football and lacrosse
08:50 – Missionary work in Japan and hearing God’s call home
11:18 – Baltimore, business, school, lacrosse, and friends
13:11 – Entering the family business on a “one-year” commitment
16:14 – Understanding God’s purpose and our unique purpose
19:29 – The early days of Kelly Benefits and dedicating the business to God
20:53 – Writing a mission statement and building a faith-rooted organization
22:11 – Mission, values, pillars, and Scripture in business
26:43 – Helping employees grow personally and professionally
30:33 – Wellness, generosity, and giving as a witness
32:57 – Stewardship, giving, and Nativity’s teaching on generosity
35:38 – Frank’s books and the message behind Love and Go
39:30 – Why sharing failures matters for leaders
40:03 – What Frank learned from Nativity, Rebuilt, and parish renewal
44:23 – Finding and encouraging the “Franks” in your parish
46:06 – God winks, Rebuilt, and sharing truth with other parishes
48:09 – Where to find Frank’s books and resources
49:36 – The Creator’s Game and coming to know the Creator
50:55 – Final thoughts and closing
To join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list and be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speakers, and event updates, visit rebuiltparish.com/conference
Catholic podcast, Catholic business leader, faith in business, Frank Kelly III, Kelly Benefits, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Catholic leadership, Catholic evangelization, parish renewal, discipleship, Catholic discipleship, living your faith at work, faith and work, Catholic workplace witness, Christian business leadership, Catholic business, stewardship, generosity, Holy Spirit, Catholic conversion story, lacrosse faith story, Love and Go, Catholic small groups, Church of the Nativity, Tom Corcoran, Melissa Wilkinson, Fr Michael White, parish leadership, Catholic parish leaders, making disciples, Catholic testimony, Catholic family business, faith and leadership
Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!

“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!
https://www.rebuiltparish.com/
facebook.com/rebuiltparish
instagram.com/rebuiltparish
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/
https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish
54 min
July 02 166| Culture Is Everyone’s Job: Parish Leadership Lessons from Chick-fil-A
In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson and Tom Corcoran sit down with Natalie Marts, a Chick-fil-A owner/operator and parish leader at Church of the Nativity. Natalie shares her story of entrepreneurship, faith, leadership, and stewardship, from buying her first business at 19 years old to leading a thriving Chick-fil-A team in Towson, Maryland.
Together, they explore what parish leaders can learn from business leadership, including how to balance relationships and results, build layers of leadership, develop young people, hire the right people, and create a healthy culture. Natalie also shares a powerful story about praying before 70,000 people at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl and how God often prepares us before we even know what he is asking of us.
This conversation is full of practical “nuggets” for pastors, parish staff, ministry leaders, and anyone working to build a healthier, mission-driven parish culture.
Key Takeaways
Parish leaders are called to be both relational and results-oriented. Caring for people does not mean avoiding accountability.
Stewardship is not just about money. It is about recognizing that everything entrusted to us belongs to God.
Healthy leadership requires layers. Growth depends on building teams, developing leaders, and giving people ownership.
The personal ask matters. Many gifted leaders in the parish will not step forward until someone personally invites them.
Culture is everyone’s job. It is shaped by what leaders model, celebrate, and tolerate.
Want to be part of what’s next? Join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list at rebuiltparish.com/conference to be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speaker announcements, event updates, and everything you need to start planning who from your parish should be in the room.
00:00 Introduction
00:50 Natalie’s faith journey and path to Chick-fil-A
05:38 How early mentors shaped Natalie’s entrepreneurial leadership
08:26 Developing young people through work and leadership
09:32 Balancing relationships and results
11:15 Why clear expectations and hard conversations matter
14:26 Stewardship as a foundation for leadership
17:25 Leading through challenges with prayer and trust
20:47 The importance of having someone who challenges your thinking
22:16 Working with different gifts and shared leadership
25:27 When God is protecting or preparing you
27:08 Praying at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl
31:38 Building layers of leadership in a large team
36:11 Why leaders cannot wear every hat forever
38:33 Getting the right people in the right seats
40:17 Hiring, recruiting, and protecting culture
46:21 Why parish leaders should personally ask business leaders to serve
48:55 Culture is everyone’s job
50:03 Closing thoughts
Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!
“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!
https://www.rebuiltparish.com/
facebook.com/rebuiltparish
instagram.com/rebuiltparish
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/
https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish

Catholic parish leadership, parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Chick-fil-A leadership, Natalie Marts, Catholic leadership, parish culture, church leadership, Catholic business leadership, stewardship, parish stewardship, leadership development, ministry leadership, Catholic ministry, parish staff, pastors, parish leaders, Catholic evangelization, discipleship, team culture, volunteer leadership, business leaders in the Church, leadership layers, Church of the Nativity, Tom Corcoran, Melissa Wilkinson
54 min
June 25 165| Rachel Herbeck on Evangelization, Young Adults, and The Next Generation
Young adults are searching for truth, belonging, and something deeper than what the culture is offering. In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson welcomes Rachel Herbeck from Renewal Ministries for a conversation about reaching Gen Z and young adults with the Gospel.
Rachel shares what she is seeing in the next generation, why many young people are becoming more open to the Church, and how parishes can be ready to welcome them. She talks about the importance of authentic community, clear proclamation of Jesus Christ, and meeting people where they are.
From coffee shops and gyms to homes, small groups, and parish life, Rachel reminds us that evangelization is not extra. It is part of being Catholic. This episode will encourage parish leaders to look beyond programs and begin creating real pathways of welcome, relationship, and discipleship.
Learn more about Renewal Ministries: renewalministries.net
Timestamps
00:00 Welcome and introduction
02:03 Rachel’s story and her work with Renewal Ministries
04:37 What young adults are looking for today
09:14 Why Gen Z is becoming more open to faith
12:04 Why young adults are really looking for Jesus
14:29 The power of a simple welcome
18:55 How Renewal Ministries helps young people encounter Christ
20:38 Small groups, adoration, run clubs, and real relationship
22:41 Meeting young adults where they already are
25:44 Evangelization in coffee shops, gyms, and everyday life
36:29 Walking with people for the long haul
41:51 Encouragement for pastors and parish leaders
46:47 Where to learn more about Rachel and Renewal Ministries
To join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list and be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speakers, and event updates, visit rebuiltparish.com/conference.
Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!
“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!
https://www.rebuiltparish.com/
facebook.com/rebuiltparish
instagram.com/rebuiltparish
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/
https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish

Gen Z, young adults, Catholic young adults, Catholic evangelization, parish evangelization, reaching young adults, Catholic parish renewal, Renewal Ministries, Rachel Herbeck, young adult ministry, Catholic discipleship, Catholic podcast, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, parish leadership, Catholic parish leadership, Catholic Church, Catholic faith, Catholic youth ministry, next generation Catholic, Catholic community, parish hospitality, Catholic ministry, evangelization, discipleship, missionary discipleship, Catholic Gen Z, young Catholics, Catholic young women, Be Love Revolution, prayer, Scripture, adoration, Catholic small groups, parish life, Catholic pastors, parish staff, Catholic leaders, Church renewal, encounter Jesus, welcome ministry, Catholic parish growth, Catholic inspiration, faith and culture, returning to Church, young adults coming back to Church

52 min
June 18164| From Good to Great: A Parish Renewal Story
What happens when a parish team comes to the Rebuilt Conference, takes time to dream together, and then chooses to act on what God is stirring?
In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson talks with Chris Kozlowski from St. Isidore Parish in Michigan about how his parish and family of parishes came to the Rebuilt Conference in 2025, invited Tom Corcoran and David Makela to lead a strategic offsite, and eventually entered Rebuilt coaching. Chris shares the intentional steps their team took, the leadership rhythm they are building, and the early signs of growth they are already seeing.
Want to be part of what’s next? Join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list at rebuiltparish.com/conference to be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speaker announcements, event updates, and everything you need to start planning who from your parish should be in the room.
If your parish feels stuck, encouraged but unsure where to begin, or ready to move from inspiration to action, this conversation offers a clear and hopeful path forward.
In This Episode
Why St. Isidore wanted to move from “good” to “great”
How 10 leaders from a family of parishes came together for Rebuilt Conference
Why the road trip became part of the team’s formation
What stood out at the conference, from volunteers to hospitality to message series
Why the team invited Rebuilt to lead a strategic offsite
How coaching helped create accountability, rhythm, and momentum
The measurable growth St. Isidore has seen through message series
Chris’s encouragement for parish leaders who feel stuck
Chapters / Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
00:23 St. Isidore’s parish context
01:28 Why “good” was not enough
02:11 Coming to conference as a family of parishes
04:47 Making the road trip intentional
06:21 Seeing the Rebuilt model come alive
08:02 What stood out in the sessions
09:52 Debriefing and dreaming on the ride home
11:36 Inviting Rebuilt to lead a strategic offsite
13:23 Building a leadership rhythm
15:54 The value of one-on-one conversations
16:53 Moving from offsite to coaching
17:26 How coaching creates accountability
20:27 Early growth through message series
22:29 Building toward small groups
23:54 Advice for parishes that feel stuck
26:10 How God has been at work
28:45 Closing encouragement and next steps
Key Takeaways
Bring your team, not just one person.
St. Isidore brought 10 leaders from across their family of parishes to the Rebuilt Conference, which helped create shared vision and energy.
Use travel time intentionally.
Chris turned the road trip to and from the conference into a time for honest conversation, dreaming, and debriefing.
Conference inspiration needs a next step.
After returning home, the team knew they needed more than a great experience. They invited Rebuilt to lead a strategic offsite.
An outside voice can help unlock momentum.
Tom and David helped the team identify priorities, build action steps, and establish a leadership rhythm.
Coaching creates accountability and alignment.
Meeting every other week with David and Adrian has helped the team celebrate wins, name challenges, and keep moving forward.
Small steps can lead to measurable growth.
St. Isidore saw roughly 12–13% year-over-year growth at their Sunday evening Mass after introducing a message series.
Renewal takes discipline.
Chris compares parish renewal to becoming a professional athlete. Vision matters, but so do sacrifice, hard work, coaching, and intentional practice.
Call to Action
Ready to take a next step like St. Isidore?
To learn more about bringing Rebuilt to your parish for a strategic offsite, email [email protected].
To join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list and be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speakers, and event updates, visit rebuiltparish.com/conference.
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“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!
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Catholic parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish, parish coaching, Rebuilt Conference, Catholic leadership, parish strategic planning, parish offsite, St. Isidore Parish Michigan, Catholic parish growth, message series, small groups, parish leadership team, discipleship, family of parishes, Church of the Nativity, parish transformation, Catholic evangelization, Catholic parish podcast
34 min
June 11163| What Happens When Parish Leaders Gather Together
What happens when parish leaders step away from the daily pressures of ministry and gather together with other pastors, staff, and volunteers who understand the mission and the challenges of parish life?
In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with Rebuilt’s own Colleen Droney to talk all things Rebuilt Conference 2027. Colleen shares behind-the-scenes insights from the 2025 conference, stories of parish transformation that happened after teams returned home, and why gathering together in person matters more than ever for parish renewal.
You’ll hear practical advice on who to bring from your parish, why traveling as a team can accelerate momentum, and how the Holy Spirit moved powerfully throughout the last conference. Whether you’re a pastor, staff member, volunteer leader, or parish council member, this conversation will help you begin praying and preparing now for what God may want to do in your parish next May.
Be sure to join the conference insiders list so you can be the first to hear speaker announcements, conference updates, and early bird pricing details. https://rebuiltconference.com/
Key Takeaways
Why in-person connection matters for parish leaders
How parishes are applying ideas from the 2025 conference
The breakout session that sparked a thriving young adult ministry
Why bringing a team creates momentum back home
How the Holy Spirit shaped the atmosphere of the conference
Why now is the time to budget and plan for conference attendance
What pastors and parish leaders can expect from Rebuilt Conference 2027
Timestamps
00:00 — Welcome and episode introduction
00:29 — Colleen’s role at Rebuilt and conference planning
02:52 — Why bringing the conference back mattered
03:59 — The most powerful moments from the 2025 conference
06:42 — Why parish leaders need in-person connection
08:56 — Real parish transformation after the conference
09:22 — The breakout session that sparked “20s on Tuesday”
13:16 — What first-time attendees can expect
15:19 — Letting the Holy Spirit lead the experience
16:24 — How many people should your parish bring?
17:17 — Why bringing a team accelerates momentum
19:27 — Why teams should come early for Sunday Mass
21:44 — Budgeting and planning for conference now
23:59 — Early bird pricing and insider updates
25:30 — Official conference dates and final invitation
Rebuilt Conference, Catholic parish conference, parish renewal, Catholic leadership, church leadership, parish growth, Catholic ministry, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, parish staff training, Catholic evangelization, discipleship, parish transformation, church conference, Catholic pastors, ministry conference

Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!

“I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!

https://www.rebuiltparish.com/
facebook.com/rebuiltparish
instagram.com/rebuiltparish
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/
https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish
30 min