In this episode of Wannabe Saints, we sit down with Janelle Bauer, Jordyn's sister, whose life is a moving testimony of perseverance through suffering and grace. Janelle opens up about battling health issues from childhood to adulthood, including a near-death experience, and how those trials deepened her faith rather than destroyed it. She shares the pain of miscarriage, the ongoing challenges of living with health struggles, and the moment where Jesus completely transformed her heart. Through every season, Janelle has discovered that perseverance is not just about enduring hardship but about allowing God to bring beauty and healing through it.   More from Wannabe Saints:🔗 Linktree – All Our Links📩 Email us: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com📸 Follow us: @Wannabe_Saints💛 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/WannabeSaints

In this episode, we sit down with Fr. Trowbridge to talk all things prayer: what it truly is, how to pray, and how to stay faithful when it feels difficult or distracting. Together, we unpack what the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches about prayer and how to cultivate a deeper, more personal relationship with God. Fr. Trowbridge offers practical wisdom on handling distractions and growing in presence, persistence, and consistency, learning how to keep prayer alive even when emotions fade. Prayer isn’t about perfection. It’s about persevering, consistency and being present. Show up, stay consistent, and trust that persistence opens your heart to the quiet work of grace. Links to our favorite prayers: Byzantine prayer before communion  Stay with me, Lord- Padre Pio Jordyn's Favorite Motherhood Prayer Book More from Wannabe Saints:🔗 Linktree – All Our Links📩 Email us: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com📸 Follow us: @Wannabe_Saints💛 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/WannabeSaints

In this episode of Wannabe Saints,we down with Jordyn's husband, Kyle, to talk about a topic that often gets overlooked: true leisure and the Sabbath day. From a man’s perspective, Kyle shares how he approaches work life balance, the struggle to step away from busyness, and the challenge of truly resting in a world that glorifies productivity. Together, the three of us unpack what the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches about keeping holy the Sabbath, not just as a suggestion but as one of the Ten Commandments. We explore how much of its original meaning has been lost in modern culture and why recovering it matters for our families, our faith, and our souls. Along the way, we give our own hot takes on what leisure really looks like today. This conversation is both practical and theological, covering:• How leisure differs from rest or mere entertainment• The deeper spiritual call to set aside Sunday for God, family, and renewal• The origin of the Sabbath and what it means for Catholics today If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to live out the Third Commandment in daily life, or how to reclaim authentic leisure, this conversation will challenge and encourage you.More from Wannabe Saints:🔗 Linktree – All Our Links📩 Email us: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com📸 Follow us: @Wannabe_Saints💛 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/WannabeSaints

This episode continues our conversation with Becca Plance, Natalie Schol, and Cindy Jorgensen, three moms with six kids each, living in three different stages of motherhood. In Part 1, we explored the surprises, joys, and challenges of raising children from infancy through adulthood. In Part 2, we pick up right where we left off—diving into the fears and hopes that come with growing a family, the lessons learned in the midst of chaos, and the faith that carries mothers through every season. If you loved Part 1, you won’t want to miss this second half of the conversation. It’s real, encouraging, and full of wisdom for moms in every stage of life. More from Wannabe Saints:🔗 Linktree – All Our Links📩 Email us: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com📸 Follow us: @Wannabe_Saints💛 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/WannabeSaints

In this episode of Wannabe Saints, we sit down with Becca Plance, Natalie Schol, and Cindy Jorgensen—three incredible mothers who each share a unique perspective on raising six children. Together, they represent three distinct stages of motherhood: the early years of infants, toddlers, and elementary-aged kids, the whirlwind of raising teenagers, and the season of launching grown children into the world. We dive into the joys, struggles, and surprises of motherhood, asking honest questions about what it’s really like to grow a family, navigate changing seasons, and trust God’s provision through it all. Their stories bring wisdom, laughter, and encouragement to moms in every stage of life. Whether you’re rocking babies to sleep, chauffeuring teens to activities, or adjusting to an emptying nest, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone and that every season of motherhood is filled with both challenges and beauty.   More from Wannabe Saints:🔗 Linktree – All Our Links📩 Email us: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com📸 Follow us: @Wannabe_Saints💛 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/WannabeSaints

In this episode of Wannabe Saints, Chris Plance joins us to discuss the virtue of justice, its meaning, challenges, and implications for our lives. We explore the social kingship of Christ, the role of justice in Scripture, and why obedience to God is central to living justly. Our conversation also dives into the Church today, the tension between charismatic and traditional worship, the historical context of Vatican II, and the ongoing call for unity under the authority of the Pope. On a personal level, we reflect on how justice shapes parenting, marriage, and friendships, from honoring parents to loving enemies, and why relationships grounded in justice strengthen the community of faith. Ultimately, this episode reminds us that all justice flows from our relationship with God, and only in Him can we find its fullest expression. More from Chris Plance:▶️ YouTube: @ChristopherPlance💛 Support on Patreon: patreon.com/ChristopherPlance✖️ Follow on X: @CGPlance🌎 Website: cristeroparty.comMore from Wannabe Saints:🔗 Linktree – All Our Links📩 Email us: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com📸 Follow us: @Wannabe_Saints💛 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/WannabeSaints

In Part 2 of Katie’s powerful story, from rebellion to redemption, we get to hear how God took her rebellious years and turned them into something beautiful. She opens up about a season that deeply shook her faith and how she got through it. Through the ups and downs, you’ll hear how the three theological virtues—faith, hope, and charity—remain active in her life: how hope is her anchor, how she chose faith even when trusting God felt hard, and how she continues to live out charity through the work she’s done and continues to do. Enjoy Part 2! Links to Katie’s Work:🌍 For His Glory Tours🏫 The Archangels Academy📸 @forhisglorytours on Instagram More from Wannabe Saints:🔗 Linktree – All Our Links📩 Email us: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com📸 Follow us: @Wannabe_Saints💛 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/WannabeSaints

Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of sensitive topics including binge drinking, sexual assault, and eating disorders. Listener discretion is advised. In Part 1 of this powerful two-part conversation, we sit down with Rachael’s sister, Katie Baynai, as she bravely shares the early chapters of her journey—from teenage rebellion and deep brokenness to the beginning of God's healing work in her life. Katie opens up about the painful realities of binge drinking, the trauma of sexual assault, and her silent battle with bulimia. But this isn’t just a story of suffering—it’s a testimony of God’s relentless pursuit and the first signs of redemption breaking through. Her honesty, courage, and faith lay the foundation for what becomes a powerful witness to the radical love of God. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Katie shares how God’s grace continues to transform her life.   Links to Katies Business and School: https://www.forhisglorytours.com/ https://www.thearchangelsacademy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/forhisglorytours/More from us: Linktree📩 Questions or feedback? Email: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com📸 Follow us: @Wannabe_Saints on Instagram💛 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/WannabeSaints  

In this episode, we explore the virtue of introspection, the habit of examining our interior life in the light of God’s truth. Joined by Emma Scordato, we reflect on how true introspection isn't self-centered, but a God-centered self-awareness that leads to freedom, growth, and holiness. Introspection, rightly ordered, is not self-absorption, it’s the pathway to recognizing both our strengths and struggles in light of grace. It leads to authenticity, deeper trust in God’s mercy, and a life aligned with His will. Rooted in the wisdom of the saints and the Catechism, we uncover how introspection becomes the foundation for discernment, moral maturity, and virtue.   Check out Emma’s Pregnancy journal: Lumen Vitae Press @lumenvitae.press on Instagram   More from us: Wannabe Saints LinktreeQuestions or feedback? Email: wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.comFollow us: @Wannabe_Saints on Instagram

In Part 2 of our conversation with Fr. Trowbridge, we continue exploring what it truly means to build a life rooted in virtue. Fr. Trowbridge walks us through the three stages of the spiritual life, helping us understand how growth unfolds over time with God’s grace. We reflect on how the Cross, far from being a burden, becomes a source of light, allowing us to see more clearly through the wisdom of sacrifice and the example of Christ. Fr. Trowbridge also breaks down the four key steps to cultivating virtue: it begins with desire, deepens with knowledge and understanding, is strengthened through discipline and perseverance, and ultimately depends on grace. This episode is both practical and profound, offering a roadmap for anyone seeking to walk the path of holiness with clarity and conviction.  Link to Fr. Trowbridge's Parish – St. Catherine of Genoa Support us on Patreon Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_SaintsFind all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

In Part 1 of our conversation with Fr. Trowbridge, we dive deep into the foundational topics of virtue, vice, and the often-overlooked impact of venial sin. We explore what virtue truly is, how vice takes root, and why even "small sins" can have a serious effect on the soul. Drawing from the Catechism, Fr. Trowbridge unpacks how venial sin weakens our pursuit of holiness and why it can’t simply be brushed aside. Throughout the conversation, we’re reminded that the path to virtue begins by being present to who you are right now — not who you were, and not who you hope to become — but fully attentive to the present moment where grace is at work.Link to Fr. Trowbridge's Parish Our Patreon Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

In this episode of Wannabe Saints, Fr. Keith Romke joins us for a fun, deep and insightful conversation on the virtue of humility. We talk about the inner battle between the Theo and ego drama and how many people misunderstand humility as weakness or self-deprecation. Fr. Romke reframes humility as knowing your true identity in God: that you are created in His image, fully loved, and nothing you do can earn or erase that love. We also dive into the importance of silence in prayer and the challenge to “show up and shut up” so God can speak. Resources & Links:🔗 Fr. Romke’s Website📘 I Believe in Love by Fr. Jean d’Elbée📘 Spiritual Survival in the Modern World by Dr. Andrew Swafford Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

In this episode on the virtue of respect- We unpack four different types of respect—because it’s not a one-size-fits-all virtue. We explore:     •    General Respect for every person     •    Respect of Position for roles of authority     •    Respect for God      •    Earned Respect through trust and admiration We reflect on how earned respect is often the easiest to give—because it’s shown to those we admire, trust, and love. But it’s also the type of respect that can hurt us the most when that trust is broken. We also discuss how respect evolves, especially in our relationships with parents—what it looks like to honor them as adults. Drawing from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, we consider our call to respect all those in authority: parents, grandparents, teachers, bosses, and more. Finally, we talk about reverence and how we can grow in our awe and love for God.   Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints   Link to Article We Read- From Focus On The Family  

In this episode of, Wannabe Saints, we switched things up for the virtue of fortitude. We interviewed Jordyn’s friend, Cecilia Brennan. Her life is a living example of the gift and virtue of fortidue, always persevering in faith and overcoming all obstacles, growing stronger and stronger each time. From growing up without her mom, to her husband being deployed to Japan two moths after they got married and starting her own company at the same time, to having to raise their daughter alone for the first 6 months. Despite all the trials she has been able to see Gods hand and the blessings in it all. “The purpose of life isn’t to find happiness, it is to find peace.”  Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints Links to Cecilia's Instagram and Podcast: Cecilia's Instagram What In The Dang Heck What In The Dang Heck Instagram 

In this episode of Wannabe Saints, we dive deep into the powerful connection between compassion and mercy. We explore how true mercy can’t exist without compassion—and how compassion naturally moves us to acts of mercy. From the corporal and spiritual works of mercy to the challenge of bearing wrongs patiently, we reflect on how these virtues call us to love others even when it's hard. We also talk about what it means to forgive from the heart, and how real forgiveness isn’t something we can do on our own—it’s only possible through the grace and help of the Holy Spirit. Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

Integrity is more than just being honest and trustworthy—it’s about living in a way that takes your values and turns them into virtues. In this episode of Wannabe Saints, we talk about what it really means to be a person of integrity, the virtues that it requires, and why it’s not just about doing the right thing when people are watching, but who you are at your core. Listen in as we break down what it takes to be a person of integrity and challenge ourselves to live more authentically. Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

In this episode—Forgiveness & Confession—of Wannabe Saints, we welcome special guest Father Ditomo to dive into forgiveness and confession. We talk about the difference between mercy and forgiveness, why confession is key to spiritual growth, and where it’s found in Scripture. Plus, we discuss how confession can be a powerful source of psychological healing. Don’t forget to check out our show notes for timestamps on all the key topics in this insightful 2.5-hour conversation!   Listen to Father’s Podcast here: The Grace Filled Life   Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints   Episode Time Stamps: 0:04:51 – Mercy vs. Compassion 20:22 – If someone confessed murder, can the priest tell them to turn themselves in? 22:20 – Confession: The Genius Sacrament 24:38 – Difference Between Grace and Mercy 27:52 – Where Is Confession in the Bible? 33:12 – Why Confess Sins to a Priest? 39:33 – Causing an Offense Against Someone and Going to Them Before Confession 40:52 – Mortal vs. Venial 43:33 – Free Will in Mortal Sin? 46:39 – Is Suicide Grave Matter? 49:49 – Sexual Sin 55:53 – Why Does It Feel Like You Fall Harder into Sin After Going to Confession? 1:02:47 – When You Forget Sins in Confession but Remember After, Have They Been Forgiven? 1:04:07 – How Specific Do You Need to Be in Confession? 1:06:00 – Is the Number of Times Just for Mortal Sin? 1:13:44 – Why Is Frequent Confession a Good Practice Even If It Isn’t a Mortal Sin? 1:16:37 – Praying While in Mortal Sin 1:21:20 – Do You Need to Confess Past Sins as You Further Develop Your Conscience? 1:24:41 – Examination of Life/General Confession 1:27:42 – Should You Write Things Down for Confession? 1:32:47 – Should Everyone Have a Spiritual Director, and How Do You Get One? 1:38:57 – Withholding Forgiveness and Holding Grudges 1:46:21 – Scrupulosity 1:54:27 – Psalm and Prayer to Help With Scrupulosity 1:57:26 – Confessing Behaviors That Are More Weakness Than Sin 1:59:49 – Why Do Priests Give Small Penances? 2:11:11 – Communion Covers Venial Sins—Should You Still Go to Confession Regularly? 2:13:37 – Bad Advice From a Priest or Not in Line With Church Teaching 2:17:00 – If the Priest Messes Up the Prayer of Absolution

In this episode, we discuss lent and the virtue of mortification—what it truly means to “put to death” our desires, both the bad and the good ones that may hinder our spiritual growth. Mortification isn’t just about denying ourselves harmful habits, but about surrendering everything, even good things, in order to grow closer to God. By embracing this discipline, we learn to pick up our daily cross and follow Christ more fully. We discuss how mortification can be used as a form of prayer to create grace and by uniting it with Christ, suffering leads us to greater intimacy, with God. Tune in to learn how the practice of mortification relates to lent, can transform your life and deepen your relationship with God.Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints Links to things we discussed:  The Catholic Company Lenten Suggestions. The Great Adventure Bible My Daily Bread Catechism of the Catholic Church, Ascension Edition

Valentine’s Day is more than chocolates, flowers, and romance—it’s about a love that gives. In this short reflection, we dive into the true meaning behind Valentine's Day, exploring the sacrificial love of St. Valentine and how he followed the ultimate example of love: Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. As Catholics, we know Valentine’s Day is so much more than what the world tells us. It’s about loving others beyond words—through actions, selflessness, and sacrifice. Let’s rediscover what this day is really about and embrace the deeper, truer love it calls us to. Happy Saint Valentine's Day! Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints

In this episode, we discuss the connection between meekness and gentleness, two virtues often used interchangeably. We address the misconception that meekness means weakness and explain how gentleness is much more than just a soft touch—it’s a mindset and your disposition. We also dive into how meekness and gentleness are linked by a kind of sensitivity—not emotional sensitivity, but a sensitivity to the needs of others and how we anticipate those needs. We look at how these virtues show up in our words, actions, and relationships, and discuss their impact on both ourselves and those around us.  Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints