“In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world."
~ John 16:33

What do I do when I feel like giving up?
Is God present even when things feel hopeless?
Is it up to me to solve the problems in the world around me?

In Episode 93 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna tackle the challenge of staying sane and spiritually grounded in a world that feels increasingly divided, chaotic, and hopeless. The episode delves into the heavy realities facing our local communities and the broader world—addressing violence, division, and the toll of recent tragedies. Drawing on their backgrounds in faith, therapy, and family life, Pat and Kenna explore the tension between seeking justice and maintaining inner peace, as well as the struggle to trust and engage one another amid strong differences. They offer practical reflections on discerning what is in our control, the importance of empathy, and finding peace rooted in relationship with God rather than public approval. Join them for honest conversation, vulnerability, and encouragement to anchor your sanity—and search for sanctity—in turbulent times.

Episode 93 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters: 

0:00: Introduction & Olympic game
13:11: Highs & Hards
21:07: Why are things so hard?
30:09: Peace lies between resentment & disengaging
37:23: What is in my control and what isn't?
45:48: Rejecting the pull to seek others' approval
53:07: Challenge By Choice

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

You're on a road trip with Jesus. 

Where is he sitting?

Where are you sitting?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

"Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you."
~ 1 Peter 5:7

What is anxiety, really?
How do I process my anxiety when it's not helpful?
Seriously - thanking God for my anxiety?

In this episode of This Whole Life, Kenna and Pat welcome licensed professional counselor Catherine DiNuzzo for a deep dive into anxiety—what it is, why it happens, and how to manage it. Catherine DiNuzzo shares her insights on the biology of anxiety, her work with clients, and the importance of approaching anxiety with self-compassion rather than fear (or more anxiety). The discussion covers the reasons that God built anxiety into our experience, practical strategies for managing anxiety, and how parents can support anxious children. Highlights include Catherine DiNuzzo’s perspective on thanking God for anxiety, grounding techniques, and the ways the Catholic faith naturally integrates mental wellness. With relatable stories and actionable advice, this episode offers hope, empathy, and spiritual wisdom for anyone looking to find peace amidst the struggles of modern life. And yes, you'll even thank God for your anxiety.

Catherine DiNuzzo, MA, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice, who also operates Sacred Heart Mental Wellness. Catherine earned her Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Services from the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs. Prior to her private practice, Catherine worked for several years in both schools and in agency counseling, especially with Veterans. She has spoken internationally and with many Catholic events & organizations on the topic of mental wellness.

Catherine and her husband, Dave, live in a small rural town in the middle of Kansas with their four amazing children.

Episode 92 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
14:02: Why did that make me anxious?
21:55: What is (and isn't) anxiety?
28:06: What causes anxiety?
34:44: But the Bible says to NOT be anxious...
41:30: How do I calm unnecessary anxiety?
48:34: Helping our kids with their anxiety
52:37: Challenge By Choice

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What's it like to have the responsibility of discerning whether a man or woman would be a healthy and suitable priests or religious?

Dr. Anthony Isacco shares his humble insights into the quietly holy work of psychological assessments in the process of discernment.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed."
~ Psalm 34:19

Is it a sin to be depression?
Is depression really able to be treated and healed?
How can I help my loved one who is suffering with depression?

In the first ever episode of "This Whole Life" recorded in front of a LIVE audience, Pat is joined by Dr. Anthony Isacco to dive into the realities of depression—what it is, how it affects individuals and families, and its complex relationship with faith. The conversation explores common misconceptions, clinical symptoms, and ways to distinguish normal sadness from major depressive disorder. Listeners will find hope as Dr. Isacco shares evidence-based approaches for healing, emphasizing the power of behavioral activation, social connection, and integrated spiritual practices. Full of relatable anecdotes and practical advice, the episode stresses that depression is treatable and offers tangible steps for listeners to support themselves or loved ones. Whether you’re seeking understanding as a parent, friend, or clinician, this episode delivers empathy, science, and faith in one thoughtful package.

Anthony Isacco, PhD is program director, professor, and head of clinical research in the new MS in clinical psychology program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. He is a licensed psychologist and is the principal of a small private practice focused on helping clergy, seminarians, and women religious live healthy, holy, and happy lives in their vocations. He is a graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville (BA), Boston College (MA), and Loyola University of Chicago (PhD). Dr. Isacco lives in Pittsburgh, PA with his wife and four daughters.

Episode 91 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
11:13: Understanding depression
19:46: The relationship between depression & faith
26:36: Is it a sin to be depressed?
36:51: Suggestions for someone who is depressed
43:14: Early signs of depression
50:45: Challenge By Choice

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

What does a Wyoming girl do every time she visits the family farm?

Beth Hlabse joins us for this edition of Storytellers and a glimpse of the grandeur, quiet, and beauty of her childhood home.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

"But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight."
~ Luke 10:33

How can I better support my loved one who suffers with mental illness?
What is the Church's place in caring for those with mental illnesses?
Is it possible to choose my responses instead of just reacting?

In episode 90, Kenna & Pat welcome Beth Hlabse, program director of the Fiat Program on Faith and Mental Health at the University of Notre Dame, for an honest conversation about loving and supporting people with mental illness. Drawing on personal stories, professional expertise, and Catholic teaching, the episode explores the complexities of mental health through the lens of accompaniment, compassion, and community. Beth shares practical wisdom for churches and families, highlighting the importance of seeing the gifts and goodness of every person beyond their diagnosis, setting healthy boundaries, and moving from reactive to responsive support. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own biases and discomfort, discovering pathways to deeper empathy, hope, and belonging—especially in faith communities. Whether you’re walking this journey yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode offers encouragement and tangible steps toward stronger, more healing connections.

Beth Hlabse is the program director for the Fiat Program on Faith and Mental Health at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame. As a mental health counselor, Beth has provided therapeutic care for adolescents and adults with histories of trauma and adverse child experiences. Beth graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2011 and she obtained her masters in clinical mental health counseling from Divine Mercy University. Beth and her husband Pete live in South Bend, Indiana.

Episode 90 Show Notes

Reflection Questions

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
18:40: Acknowledging my past to inform my future
29:00: Loving others in the midst of mental illness
42:07: Isolation: a cause and effect of mental illness
54:03: Healthy boundaries in relationship with others with mental illness
59:01: Challenge By Choice

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

When do you know that you're meant to marry someone? How much do you ever really know?? 

Mike & Alicia Hernon of the Messy Family Project share the story of their friendship, dating, and discernment with loads of wisdom for anyone at any stage of their vocation journey.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

“Where there is no vision, the people perish."
~ Proverbs 29:18

Why do my spouse and I fight over such trivial things?
How can we be more connected in our marriage?
How do we create a vision of hope for our family?

In episode 89 of This Whole Life, hosts Kenna & Pat Millea welcome Mike & Alicia Hernon, founders of the Messy Family Project. Together, they dive deep into the importance of building a shared vision for marriage and family, exploring the transformative power of intentionality in daily life. The Hernons share candid stories from parenting ten children and offer insights into their Family Board Meeting — a practical tool for couples to step back from the daily grind and realign on what truly matters. From handling sibling conflict to fostering lifelong bonds within the family, the conversation balances vulnerability, laughter, and actionable wisdom. Listeners will learn how vision shapes family culture, hear guidance for spouses who bristle against setting a family vision, and find inspiration to move beyond survival mode toward thriving family life. Tune in for heartfelt advice, hope, and encouragement from two couples passionate about faith and family.

Mike & Alicia Hernon are co-founders of the Messy Family Project, a ministry dedicated to empowering moms and dads to embrace their sacred calling. Before launching the ministry, Mike was Vice President of Advancement at Franciscan University and host of Franciscan University Presents on EWTN. He holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Theology and a Master’s in Business Administration. Alicia has a degree in Education and is the founder of Mary Seat of Wisdom Classical Community.

Parents of ten children and grandparents to eight, the Hernons have made their home in Steubenville, OH for the past 30 years.

Episode 89 Show Notes

Chapters:

0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards
12:42: Setting a vision for your family
23:31: Hopes for the future to impact the present
32:26: The Family Board Meeting
43:50: What if one spouse doesn't want to do a Family Board Meeting?
55:12: Challenge By Choice

Reflection Questions:

1. What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?
2. Do you have a vision for your family? Can you and your spouse both articulate that vision to your children & others?
3. What daily issues are most likely to get you stuck in the urgent instead of the important?

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Every parent has bad days, but some of those bad days become great stories over time.

Especially when there's a literal fork in the road.

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Music: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.