In this episode, Ginny Kochis shares her inspiring journey as a Catholic mom and author of Quirky Catholic Kids, offering insights on supporting neurodivergent children through faith and community. We explore challenges, saintly intercessors, and prayer strategies.

We cover:

Understanding neurodivergence: autism, ADHD, OCD, PDA, and more

The spiritual approach: integrating saints and prayers like the litany of humility

Embracing the spectrum: development versus discipline in raising neurodivergent children

Practical tips for Mass attendance

Personal stories of meltdowns, acceptance, and community support

Saints as intercessors: Therese, Zellie, Louie, and others, inspiring perseverance and patience

Creating sensory-friendly Mass environments and advocacy within parishes

The importance of surrender and trust in God's plan for our families

Resources & Links:

• Quirky Catholic Kids: Navigating Neurodivergence with Faith and Joy
• Sophia Institute Press
• Zellie Society coaching program
• Sensory-Friendly Mass in Burke, VA
• Saint Therese of Lisieux
• St. Dymphna — Patron Saint of mental health
• Prayer Resources

Connect with Ginny Kochis:

• Quirky Catholic Kids Website
• Facebook Group for Catholic Parents of Neurodivergent Kids
• Instagram

In this conversation, Brooke Taylor and Maria Gari explore the integration of physical, emotional, and spiritual health, especially during Lent. They discuss the importance of movement, hormonal health, and the transformative power of faith and community.

Key Topics:

The integration of physical, emotional, and spiritual health The role of movement and exercise in holistic wellbeing Hormonal health and menopause management for women The significance of faith, prayer, and community during Lent

Chapters

00:00 Brooke shares a personal story about her son Gus and Lent 01:21 Gus' surprising journey into running and spiritual growth 03:12 Lent as a time for honest self-assessment and growth 04:04 Introducing Maria Gari and her work with women’s health and fitness 04:58 Patterns in women’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health 06:11 Practical ways to speak kindly to ourselves during struggles 07:01 Maria shares her personal Lent journey and reliance on God's sustenance 08:25 The importance of journaling God's faithfulness during Lent 09:44 Approaching fasting and discipline with kindness, not punishment 11:10 The significance of falling and getting back up in faith 11:59 Hormonal health and menopause: practical tips for women over 40 14:10 Strength training and its benefits for long-term health 15:17 Bioidentical hormones and holistic approaches to menopause 17:00 Natural family planning and its role in marriage preparation 19:24 Empowering women through knowledge of their bodies and health 20:52 The shift away from artificial birth control and its health implications 23:30 The importance of holistic care and natural family planning in marriage 23:57 Reframing movement as honoring the body, not punishment 26:43 The spiritual and mental health benefits of running 28:10 Adapting exercise routines for aging bodies and hormonal health 30:39 Encouragement for women feeling tired but eager to grow spiritually and physically 31:49 Connecting with Maria Gari and her resources for women’s health and faith

Guest Links:

Website - https://runningmyselftogether.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/runningmyselftogether/

Lent invites us to slow down, simplify, and take an honest look at the habits that shape our lives, including the way we handle money. In this episode, Brooke welcomes Sam Fatzinger for a conversation on financial discipline, generational challenges, and the spiritual renewal that can come from reordering our priorities.

Sam reflects on how money habits are formed in childhood, the power of mentoring within families, and the importance of unity and communication for couples preparing for marriage.

The discussion also highlights the role of community support, the freedom that comes from delayed gratification, and the deeper peace that emerges when finances are properly ordered with faith and purpose.

Click here for Sam's book.

Click here for the Joyful Pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church.

Click here for the Christ in Her event in Beaumont, Texas.